genetics

My mother-in-law passed away at the age of 50 from the side effects from MS almost 20 years ago.  My question is whether my daughter  (age 22) has a high expectancy to have MS also.  She does have circulation issues in her feet like her father.  They are often cold.  She has been experiencing some stomach issues (pain, diarrhea) but a after  having the scope procedure the Dr. said there wasn't a problem internally.  She does have a fairly strong prescription for contacts/eyeglasses as my husband does also.  Should she be evaluated for MS or should we wait until there are more obvious symptoms?  

[HVAC]

I am not a doctor. The genetics is not a slam dunk. Some families have it strongly others do not. I had no one in my family history with it. Stomach issues are not usually MS.  If she is concerned it is best to start with a Primary Care Doctor. He or she can do a basic neurological exam. If he or she thinks she needs to go to a neurologist he or she can make a referral. With out symptoms or signs few Doctors will order the extensive tests for MS. It was my primary care doctor who first saw neurological problems on an exam and sent me to a neurologist.

[sllowe]

Hi Klynn,

Welcome.  MS is well documented not be inherited, though there are some families like HVAC says where it's prominent. The symptoms you mention don't sound worrysome of MS to me, but with 1st hand experience like you've had with your mother-in-law, your concern is so very understandable.  

I'm going to look for some past discussions on this that have stats for you because maybe that will help your fears.

Sure hope your daughter gets to feeling better soon!
-shell

[sllowe]

This one is good:

http://www.medhelp.org/posts/Multiple-Sclerosis/Genetics-of-MS/show/923576

Check out our health pages too if you are able.

Thanks for joining us - ask anything,
-Shell

[klynn79]

Thank you for the link.  I read it and although she  greatly favors her grandmother in physical appearance, symptoms are really not evident.  
My mother-in-law was diagnosed after the birth of my husband and was not fearful of having children but thought I should continue to educate myself, especially now that she is in her young twenties and research about MS has changed so much over the years.  I appreciate everyones comments.  Thank you!