MMD

[WAG1976]

   I have Myotonic Musculur Dystrophy type 1. I have always asked if the brain is effected along with the arms, legs and face. I have been experincing moments of rage lately and have read articles of White Matter Hyperintense Lesions. What if any effect does this have with headaches ringing in the ears and memory loss? And what type of test should I have to determine this?

Thank you.
Andrew

[vega1318]

This is a difficult forum to talk about this as there have been recent findings that some individuals with DM1 may also develop signs of fronto-temporal (brain) dysfunction.   This may lead to memory problems as well as some personality traits which one has never had before (e.g., rage).    This does not mean that you have it but if you see a specialist, such as neurologist specializing in memory problems or dementias, he / she may be able to run more tests and do a full neuropsychological assessment to see if more work is required.   You should also mention the headaches and ringing in the ears..
The other possibility is, as always, depression.    Depression can mascarade as headaches, memory loss, personality changes and everything else you have described.   It needs to be brought up to your treating neurologist or a psychiatrist who can diagnose depression even better.   Even if you don't feel sad, depression may manifest in other ways, such as, for example,  those you have described.  

Either way, nothing is unmanageable and you should bring your concerns to your treating physician and not give up until you get a satisfactory explanation.

[WAG1976]

   Thank you for your input. My wife received a call to bring me in yesterday becouse the doctor wanted to talk to me. He told me that there is fluid in the brain and this is what is causing the headaches and ringing. He now wants to do a spinal tap and place a shunt to drain some of the fluid to reduce the pressure. I had forgotten that I had a MRI some while back and the lab messed up the report address. I have to arrange to get him the disk before our next visit. The new privicy laws are making getting things difficult.
I can keep you posted if you wish.

  Thanks again,
Andrew