MRI Negative for MS

[VictoriaDouglas83]

So my PCP and my Neuro. both thought I had MS because of the symptoms and 3 failed neurology tests (L'hermittes, Babinski reflex and I couldn't stand up with my feet together and eyes closed).  MY MRI that I had on Thursday was normal, the receptionist called and said Dr. wants to up my dosage of neurontin and repeat a MRI in 6 months.  They didn't do a contrast in the MRI, although the neurologist ordered w/ and w/o contrast.

I should note that my PCP first thought I was RA, then fibromyalgia.  But then the vision and unilateral problems started, she sent me to this neurologist I am currently seeing.

Well here are my symptoms:

Mainly left side of body affected.
Arm and Leg pain, numbness, stiffness.
Pain in back and neck.
Muscle twitches and spasms.
Eye balls, not lids, twitch back and forth horizontally a few times a day.
Blurry vision, like the rooms are filled with smoke.
Foggy head, confusion and memory problems.
Speech problems, slurred and forget words.
Buzzing, like phone stuck on vibrate in head.
Fatigue...major fatigue.
Sleep problems.

I introduced myself here a few weeks ago, went to the MS forum because my doctors were sure it was MS.  Now, I'm back in limbo land because the MRI showed nothing.

Ugh...

If anyone has any ideas.  I feel my doctors are giving up.  I will switch doctors but hate starting over.  I'm at the breaking point because the pain gets so bad...I can't move or play with my kids.

I've been having these symptoms on and off for almost 10 years.  I had shingles last year, and I'm wondering if this has anything to do with it.  I'm going to bring it up to my PCP tomorrow, have an appointment at 10:30am.  The symptoms have been almost constant since May, I have good and bad days.  

If anyone has any ideas, I know no one can dx me, I'm just lost.

Thank you for any suggestions, info., encouragement.

Victoria

[faithhopegreatestlove]

Hey, Victoria,
So sorry that you are going through this. You mention that your GP thought possible RA or Fibro. Forgive me if you've posted this in the past and I just don't remember, but have they checked for inflammatory processes, autoimmune issues, B12, Vit D, and such? Also, why didn't the testing facility do the MRI w/o the contrast, since that's what the neuro ordered?  And, what, if anything is happening with that?

All the best to you!
--faithHGL

[ginak]

Hello Victoria,

I am sorry you are having such a difficult time. Trust me, you are not alone. I have heard that Shingles can and does cost many of the symptoms that you are experiencing. My neurologist treats many patients with this condition. He states that sometimes the symptoms go away, but many times the patient is left with lingering effects of the virus. Please get to feeling better soon.

[illinwithoutacause]

hi victoria,

i can wholly empathize with your situation as it really mirrors my own in many ways.  my suggestion to you is for you to find a new neurologist.  i know it is a complete drag to start over again, tell your story for the zillionth time and all that, but you have a right to feel confident in your physicians, and i would beat the bushes until that happens.  i also have a little one who needs her mama, and i am desperate for some dx and treatment to allow me to be there for her again.

i know many folks take a needed break for all of this as dealing with these issues is more than a full-time job, so if you need to do that for a little while, then jump back on the horse, you should honor that.

this is just my $.02.  i have not given up yet and am actually trying to set up an appointment with a 3rd neuro right now, so that is where i'm coming from.

blessings to you and your family,
binx