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Neurology (Expert Forum)
Spinal disease? MS?
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Spinal disease? MS?
by M__0__0, Feb 14, 1999 12:00AM
I've been wrestling for the last six years with a series of annoying
symptoms that mostly occur on my right side, including:
- Tingling/numbness (finger & toetips only)
- Speech weirdness (due to tightness on right side of tongue)
- Sexual insensitivity (fairly recent)
- Muscle twitches (bodywide)
All of the symptoms come and go simultaneously. They tend to affect me all
of the time, though sometimes they disappear for a day or two. None of the
symptoms has been noticeable to others.
I've had several MRIs, EMGs, BAER tests, VEPs, blood tests, and more -- all
of which have turned out normal.
Could this be MS? Spinal disease? Pinched nerve? What should I do to
diagnose this most frustrating problem?
FYI, I'm a male in my late 20s.
Doctor's Answer
by CCF Neuro MD msf, Feb 14, 1999 12:00AM
_
Dear M,
If MRIs (brain and cervical spine) and evoked potentials are normal, MS is not likely, and if you also had a negative spinal tap, MS is highly unlikely. A pinched nerve would not cause diffuse symptoms. Your symptoms are not specific of any particular neurological disease. In fact, they can also occur in people without a neurological disease, for example as a consequence of chronic stress. If all tests were repeatedly normal (and it looks like you had a comprehensive workup), if your clinical examination is also normal (which I cannot verify over the internet of course) six years after the onset of your symptoms, it could be reasonable to continue to monitor your condition at regular intervals. I understand your frustration, but negative tests rule out many "bad things" (e.g. tumors), and some of your symptoms can be treated for themselves if they are annoying, even without a diagnosis. If your symptoms get worse over time, or if new problems appear, appropriate tests can be repeated to reach a definite diagnosis. Since I am not really involved in your care, I cannot give you more precise answers. You can discuss these issues with your doctor.
Thank you for your question, and good luck.
