MS. Miserable in MA

[DragonflyRae]

I've been feeling so craptastic these days. Overtired, overwhelmed with even the thought of doing the slightest task (I.E. just getting myself dressed and ready for the day).

The heat is really getting to me and my muscles seem to be "going on vacation" left and right. It's as if I take on complete weakness - especially when outdoors or while trying to take a shower. I fell twice this month alone.

I've been experiencing dizziness as well. On top of it all, I'm dropping things constantly and tripping due to lack of balance.

My vision has decreased dramatically in my right eye as well. In the past year alone, it has gone from -1.50 to -2.25 while my left eye has not changed one bit.

Another thing going on is paresthesia. I'm feeling pins and  needles in my arms and legs. I'm not unfamiliar to this feeling since I used to get it all the time due to medication. but, I haven't had it in a long time. However, I never experienced it to this level. My husband had to take me to the ER 3 nights ago because my feet themselves felt like they were on fire. Literally felt like they were burning and it wouldn't stop. That was certainly  NOT tingling. I was in tears and scared to death. Well, it happened again last night, only the burning was in my arms. I have not taken on any new medications, I do not use drugs, and I don't drink. Anyway, the doctor that was on that night had paged my neurologist and the neurologist told the ER doc that he would follow up with me the next day, which he did. Before they discharged me from the ER, the Doc asked me if I had ever been tested for MS, Lupus, or Lyme. I said, no. He told me to mention it to my neuro at the appt the next day. Well, I did exactly that. I'd been telling my Neurologist about my weakness, dizziness, off-balance, sensitivity to heat, pins and needles, etc (and NOW... the burning sensation) all along but he kept telling me that it's all anxiety related and that I really need to see a psychiatrist.

I should probably back up a hair for a moment and let you all know that I have Epilepsy (hence why I see Neurologist on the regular).

Anyway, I'm just frustrated I guess. Rather than even playing it safe and wanting to rule out any of these major things, he's just writing this all of as anxiety. He says that me feeling like "my feet are on fire" or that "I don't know how to walk at times" (another crazy thing I experienced recently that I didn't mention) etc... that they're all severe panic attacks and that it's all in my head. He's a neurologist. NOT a Psych! Am I right? Is it time I switch Neuros? I'm 27 yrs old. I already suffer from Epilepsy, Fibromyalgia and Interstitial Cystitis. If I have ANYTHING else going on, I'd rather find out sooner than later.

I am interested in talking to some people with MS and any other conditions that might sound like something that could be related to what I'm experiencing.

Thanks you all for listening and any feedback would be greatly appreciated.

[DragonflyRae]

To be quite honest with you, I am terrible at keeping up on vitamins. I used to take a Centrum Daily complete along with add'l vit's C, D, and E (just because, lol) but I haven't taken ANY vitamins in the past couple of years. I reallly outta take better care of myself! Thanks for the feedback :)

[DragonflyRae]

Thanks, Lulu :)
I think I'm going to make some calls tomorrow. Actually, I'm certain of it. It's time to start taking my health more seriously. I will keep you posted. Is diagnosing MS a long process? And, what does it entail?

[achilles2]

I agree get another opinion and if it has not already been done ask to have your vit d levels checks they should be between 50-70 optimal. (check the woman to woman site to find their article about vit d).

good luck,

achilles2

[Lulu54]

If I were you I would definitely go for a consultation with a second opinion.  Go somewhere that this neurologist is not connected with ......
While most neuros do have clinical training in psychology, that is not the treatment you were seeking with this doctor.

You have enough going on, and much of your recent troubles sound neurological.  You deserve a closer look to see what the true cause is, rather than being blown off with the anxiety dx.

Retesting is definitely in order.

stay in touch, ok?
Lulu

[DragonflyRae]

I should clarify that I have been tested for Lyme and Lupus in the past - but it dated back 5 yrs ago....

So, I would assume re-testing would be in order, correct?