Debilitating Symtoms(symptoms)

I am a 45 yr old female. I have had chronic muscle pain for several years. My family Dr. suggested Fibromyalgia. Within the past 6 months I have noticed additional symtoms (symptoms): The muscle pain has become severe and constant. I have developed a "clumsy walk" and tend to loose my balance frequently. I also have hand tremors and at times slurred speech. An MRI 2 years ago showed a non-specific area in the right frontal lobe. My Dr. did not seem concerned about this at the time but I am wondering if this could possibly be the cause of my problems.  I also have bouts of bruising. Bruises appear mostly on the insides of my arms and the sides of my abdomen. I also have pain under my arms and in the groin area. The only meds I take are synthroid and zoloft and trazadone for sleep. I am seeing a fast progression of these symtoms (symptoms) and don't know what exactly to do. It is getting increasing difficult to get through the day. Your thoughts and suggestions are most appreciated.

[CCF Neuro[P] MD, RPS]

Dear Debra:

I am sorry to hear of your problems.  It is not likely that whatever is the "non-specific" area in the right frontal lobe is causing your muscle pain.  I am assuming that all your labs have been normal, especially the vitamin B12 and you do not have any chronic diseases such as diabetes nor do you drink alcohol.  I would suggest a full neurological exam as the slurring of speech is not normal nor is the clumsy walking.  These are non-specific symptoms in and of themselves but with a directed neurological exam, there might be a lead toward an etiology.

Sorry I can't help much.

Sincerely,

CCF Neuro MD

[Nicole - question about B12]

Hi Doctor.... I apologize for posting a new question here.  I know im not supposed to, but Ive been trying to post for weeks (even tried after midnight a few times to be the first for the day :)

My PCP recently sent me to a Gastroenterologist for a 'possible B12 dificiency'  The specialist said it wasnt really a dificiency, just a low normal (187).  I went back a month later to be retested, still waiting for the results.

I'm wondering if this low B12 could be the cause of my other problems.  I was diagnosed with atrial tachycardia about 2 1/2 years ago.  I also lost hearing in my right hear about 5 months ago.  The ENT said it was nerve damage, possibly from a virus, but he really wasnt sure how it happened.

Do you know if a B12 level this low should be treated?  Also, is there another type of specialist i should see? THANKS!

[CCF Neuro[P] MD, RPS]

Dear Nicole:

I would doubt that a B12 deficiency would cause what you are asking.  Usually the deficits are in the long large myelinated neurons in the posterior spinal column.  This is where the demyelination process occurs that cause symptoms.  Although we never say never in medicine, it is doubtful that a B12 deficiency is causing your problem.

CCF Neuro MD

[debra]

Dear Dr.  Thank you for your response. This is what I know from my lab results. Not checked for B12 levels. CPK levels elevated, cholestral and trigricerides are very high and have been for years. For some reason medications and diet and exercise have not been successful in lowering those numbers. My Dr. has put me on Glucophage in hopes that will help lower the triglicerides (triglycerides). He also said that the "white spots" showing on the MRI could indicate MS or a small stroke,but didn't suggest any further investigation. Should I be concerned? Additionally, I do not drink alcohol and am curious as to why you asked if I did.
Thanks for your help.

[Karen Van Orden]

Dear Dr.
My 2 year old grandson just completed an MRI.  He was diagnosed with demyelination.  Is there some place that we can learn more about this ailment?  What is the prognosis?  What can we expect?

[nicky12305]

A related discussion, nerve damage? was started.