Need direction with questions for neurology consult

[mrswillie]

I would like some advice before attending an appointment with a neurologist. I have been having some symptoms that come and go for since Jan or Feb of 2008. It started as tingling in my left hand and fatigue. I have occasional bouts of vertigo. These symptoms started recurring in December along with  one episode of tingling in my left foot, intermittent tingling in both hands and tingling now in my left hand and arm. Heat makes the tingling and fatigue worse. I am also having some difficulty maintaining my balance on the treadmill. (I have been using a treadmill since 2004 so this is not a new activity for me.) I have had an EMG that showed all was good with my arms except some minor slowing in the nerves near the elbows. I have had many blood tests including b 12 and all results are normal. I had an MRI w and wo contrast on the brain and spine which are fine. My primary MD says this rules out MS (I have a cousin with MS) and he thinks all is probably fine but is sending me for a neuro consult at my request. Things don't seem fine to me. Any advice as what questions to ask the Neuro and if the Neuro also thinks it is nothing serious can any of these symptoms be treated, particularly the fatigue, heat sensitivity, and balance?? I really appreciate any assitance and direction you can provide. Thank you.

[mrswillie]

My husband reminded me to add that when the fatigue is really bad I have trouble focusing and sometimes trouble getting out my thoughts.

I would really appreciate any thoughts or suggestions. Thank you

[mrswillie]

I looked up syrinx. If I found the right info I don't think my symptoms are consistent with that condition.

[mrswillie]

I have requested copies of the MRI. They have not been reviewed by the Neuro just the radiologist, but I plan to bring them to the appointment. They did bloodwork, no spinal tap, but no indication on bloodwork to suggest lyme or lupus, and no joint swelling etcetera.

Cervical spine? I don't know the answer to the syrinx question. What should I ask about that??

[selmaS]

HI ..I am not a dr, but another neuro patient and I suggest u get copies of ur MRI's and the reports and be prepared to get a second opinion...just in case.
May I ask is the neuro u r going to , did he/she review ur MRI's? If not ask that he/she does....many times we get an all clear when something is there....it is just the opinion of the radiologist or NL that is doesn't matter so it is ignored or overlooked.( missed)

In Addition to ruling out MS did they look at u for lymes or lupus?

Was ur entire spine MRI'd...did they look for a syrinx?