Driving issue-problem turning left and changing lane

[Valenson]

Hi...I've this driving problem since I was in my 20's. I am now 58. It wasn't bad then. I am able to drive until a year & a half ago that I stopped driving and quit my job. The last time I drove was going two work and before I exit the freeway, I have to change lane to the right and I felt that the car was sliding to the right. I have to break hard and slowly exit the freeway. On the way back home, I used the side street; however, the street was winding that I have to break a couple of times. I felt like the car will tilt every time I move the steering wheel to the left and losing control of the car. I have to park my car in the first shopping center and called my daughter to pick me up. Went to the doctor and was told, I have a balance issue and it's causing anxiety. I was given a anxiety medication but it did not help. I also went to balance therapy but it did not work either so I stopped going. Virtual racing games have the same effect on me, I have the same feeling of losing control even thought it's just a game.

I practiced driving short distance a couple of times but every time I changed lane to the left or do a left turn, I felt like the car will tilt even turning left to my own driveway. I have to move the steering wheel a little bit to the right at a time and slowly turn right while my foot is in the break. I'm so nervous of losing control that my stomach hurts and was perspiring. Can someone tell me what's wrong with me?

Thanks!

[rendean]

Hi,
My diagnosis was vertigo that eventually subsided and the neuro-opthalmologist discovered a 6th cranial nerve palsy that contributed to the issue. things are going well now though, after consulting with the neuro-opthalmologist and receiving some very helpful information and solutions.

Ren

[Valenson]

Also, when I drive, I put my left hand to my right hip. I feel more stable that way and my body/ head leaning right. My husband told me to sit straight and both hands on the wheel but I don't feel comfortable. Sudden movement of the wheel/car makes me so nervous and my foot will hit the break right away.

Valenson

[Valenson]

No, I do not turn my head when it occurs. Just looking ahead on the road overwhelms me specially if the road us so wide. So what was your diagnosis?

Thanks!

[rendean]

Welcome!

I have a question for you since I have had issues with vertigo as well. Are you turning your head or moving your eyes to the extreme right or left when this occurs? This will set my vertigo off on a bad day and it's a horrible feeling when you're behind the wheel of a car. I solely use my mirrors to drive and do not look over my shoulder.

I was evaluated at MS  Center and passed with flying colors using this method!

I would go see a neuro-opthalmologist for a clear diagnosis. That's who FINALLY find the root of my problem after the ENT, PCP, neuro, etc.

Good luck! Please keep us updated!

Rendean

[Valenson]

Thanks, I will inquire about it.

Valenson

[Valenson]

That's what my primary doctor said, that I vertigo but why only when I am driving?

[Valenson]

I was referred and saw a psychiatrist and EENT specialist; not a neurologist.

[HVAC]

Most medical centers have driving evaluations if you are concerned. They are in Occupational Therapy and can tell just what the problem is.

Alex

[kwarendorf]

Welcome to our little group :-)

We're not doctors, just a bunch of people that either have MS or think they may have MS. We can't diagnose your symptoms.

What you describe sounds like it may be related to vertigo. Vertigo can be a symptom of MS. If I read your post correctly you saw a doctor about this 1 1/2 years ago. Was this doc a neurologist?

Kyle