Pseudo ataxia

[bobsjulie]

I had 1 major episode in Jan 2008, then again in Nov 2008.  I have since had 2 "smaller" episodes.  The first seemed to resolve almost absolutely and the MRI was clean.  The second was the same as the first: Felt like I was getting sick, lots of stress and woke up unable to walk in straight line, put socks on my feet and anything with coordination.  Could not stand and shower since when I closed my eyes, I'd collapse. I slowly regained almost all daily coordination and started taking over the counter L-Triptriphan and daily exercise (minimum 30 minute Curve routine or vigorous walking) regime to increase sleep, help improve seratonin levels and decrease stress. The second MRI, neurologist said there were 3 minor white spots that she said were nothing but has rescheduled another MRI for 6 months.  Since the 13th of this month, lost coordination partially but felt muscle strength not returning and earlier this week, partially lost coordination again.   Neuro says I have pseudo ataxia.  I am exhausted.  Use of muscles (ie: 15 minutes into exercise, lose coodination skills, walk very odd).  Neurologist doesn't seem concerned but she isn't the one who can't stop shaking her head no and has to lean on a cane or counter to stand.  Any direction that I need to look at since my doctor isn't helping at all.  Am I just crazy?

[cookieman101]

Hi do your symtom get worst in cold months  you could have carbon monoxide poisoning   some of my symtoms headache dizzy vertigo  short term memory problems vission problems urine leakage also brain lessions in white matter frontal lobe  get a co detector if you dont have one  good web site for symtoms of co poisoning     co headquarters .com good luck

[bobsjulie]

My neuro says I do not have MS or migraines but I guess I will wait for the second MRI.  I did forget to mention that my lack of coordination seems to be interrelated with a back of head "headache" or pain or tenderness.  When it lessens, my coordination improves.  At times, I feel almost normal but I don't think I could pass a field sobriety test, especially tilting the head back and finger to nose. My doc seems to be determined for this to be stress or brain chemistry. I'm not trying to have something bad but I have suffered depression in the past and this feels nothing like I have ever encountered.  

When my neuro suggested sleep apnea was the cause, I kind of laughed and she offered to send me on to a medical school to see if they could find anything wrong.  I will wait and see.  I keep pushing my body, trying to exercise as hard and as much as my body will allow, eat more fish...

Thank you for your input.  I feel alone and a bit guilty, thinking I'm doing something wrong and if I could just find out what I am doing or thinking, I could fix this.

[DrNoopurMD]

Hi,

Thanks for writing.
It is important for you to undergo an MRI again because the neurological symptoms have worsened over time. It is important to rule out conditions like MS which can present in a similar fashion.
I would suggest you to seek a second opinion with a neurologist and take all your reports with you when you do so.
Let us know if you have more questions. Thanks