Doc finally stated that I needed meds (chose Copaxone)

[schnauzerlady257]

Well, a few weeks ago my doctor decided that with my increasing issues (now having leg issues) that I need DMDs.  

Quick recap on me...diagnosed with CIS and only one lesion on my spine.  My neuro wanted to treat, but only after specialist approved.  Specialist said no since I was CIS.  This was 3 months ago...I have since started have problems with leg pain and numbness and foot numbness.  Have not had a MRI of thoracic spine, and doc will not do one at this point.

Anyway, he said that he would rather go ahead and treat at this point, I chose Copaxone, and so far it's going ok.  I haven't (knock on wood) had any major reactions other than the typical redness, rash and swelling.  But I HATE the bee-sting feeling...man, that really hurts! Does it ever go away?

Just trying to deal at this point...feel pretty overwhelmed by it all.  Just with the neuro would have been on the same page as me 3 months ago when I wanted DMDs and wouldn't have waited until I have more issues.  

[Vinfem]

Yes, unfortunately.  Best of luck and let us know how it is going.

[schnauzerlady257]

Thanks for the routine!  I just have to figure out what works best I guess.  It is such trial and error...

[Vinfem]

I've been on Copaxone since January 25th (yes, I will always remember that date).  I did have some bad site reactions for a while, but they went away.  As for the bee sting, I will share my routine, which I put together from several people.  

I get my autoject ready, along with a cotton pad with a dab of benadryl cream.  I take a shower (not too hot, or I get tingly).  After drying off, I take the shot.  I then immediately put the cotton bad on, with a cold compress on top of it and hold it, with pressure, for one minute. Sometimes I walk around a bit, to get my blood flowing. After the ice, I add a bit more benadryl cream and then tape the pad down, or use a bandaid so it doesn't soil my clothes.  

I have found that all of this has greatly reduced (but not eliminated) the pain of the injection.

I totally understand being overwhelmed.  As HVAC said - the shots make the MS real.  Some days are emotionally better than others.  I take solace in the fact that I am doing everything I can to remain healthy - diet, exercise, meditation, yoga, etc.  Keeping up with all of that gives me some sense of control and I at least feel like I am doing something to take care of myself.  That's the best you can hope for.  Oh, and I have a few people that are my go to venting people.  That also helps, so you don't have to hold those emotions inside you.

LE

[HVAC]

It takes some getting used to physically and emotionally. The shots make the MS real. Good luck to you. For me the Bee sting never got better but that was o.k. I liked having something as a treatment. At first I took the shots for those who had MS before shots were invented and thought I was lucky to have them. Then it was just habit. Taking care of myself.

Alex

[slightlybroken]

I'm sorry that your feeling overwhelmed right now. It is a lot to take in.

I am glad that your are receiveing DMDs, even though you did have to wait for more issues to creep up to get them. Don't you wish we had a little more control over what medications are given, and when they should? I know I do.

I hope everything goes well for you..Hopefully someone might come along and know if that "bee sting feeling" goes away, or has some tricks to make it easier.

Take Care