How severe of MS?

[scared1976802]

I am a 32 yr old female. Grew up in a cold climate, get hormonal migraines. I've recently had a second episode of symptoms of MS, it was four years ago that I had a mild one (lip only bells palsy.) Since late December I have had a brain MRI, an upper and lower MRI, nerve tests, blood tests and most recently a Spinal Tap. My last symptoms were tingling and numbing of feet, legs, hands, lower back and torso. I felt what has been described as the "MS Hug" and I was very fatigued. I also had a sensation of a surge or current running down my spine and arms when I looked downward. My brain MRI had a minimal, almost invisible area that showed matter that pointed towards MS. My cervical spine MRI resulted in lesions and the spinal tap fluid tests came back with identified oligoclonal bands abnormal for demylination disease. The symptoms started and finished within about 8 weeks. I still have slight feelings of some kind of surge running down by spine when I look downward from time to time. My cell count, proteins, calcium, ace level, viral infection, fungal infection testing from the spinal fluid all came back normal. I have been able to walk and function as normal as I always have and still go to work every day in a professional, busy, active, executive office, type of job, but I've been much more tired. My neurologist is booked for another two weeks. So in the meantime, I'm looking for answers and help. Based on what you've read, how severe of MS, and what kind or progression would you guesstimate that I have?  
Between these two episodes of four years, I did get pregnent and had no symptoms or episodes like this. However, I had a terrible pregnancy with Twin to Twin Transfusion Syndrome, but my end result is a perfectly healthy son who is the light of my life. I would like to have another chance at a normal pregnancy and have another precious child, but this recent finding of MS has me scared about where I will be in 10 years, or even five!

Any thoughts or suggestions appreciated!

[Heather3418]

None of the DMD's can be used during pregnancy.  They can lead to miscarriage.

I have more that I want to write to you, but I have to get into town before 2:15pm.  I will write you more later.

All the Best,
Heather

[scared1976802]

Thank you. Yes, it is RRMS, it's been confirmed. I was given packets for each DMD to look over and so far Copaxone looks likesomething I would prefer. Not the daily shots, but the fact that you don't have to see the needle and it doesn't go so deep. I have a bit of a needle phobia and really want the pill form to be released soon! (I'm sure so many others feel the same way!)

I am trying to find out how safe Copaxone is with pregnancy. I'm not pregnant now, but would like to be soon. Should I start treatment now, of just wait until after delivery to start? I am getting too much conflicting information on how safe it is to do treatment with child.

Thanks for chatting with me. I will be back, but I'm not online too often these days. I'll try to check in from time to time though.

[sllowe]

Hi there,

Well, it can be scary, but we are here with you now.

It looks like RRMS to me.  There are treatments for MS now, it's just the symptoms that are so difficult to deal with.  For some, they have an attack, and then their MS seemingly, remits.  For others, lesions, depending on where they are, wreak havoc on a daily basis.  

It really is wonderful that you received such an extensive workup. It's important to catch MS early.  If it were me, and I wanted another child, desperately, I would not look 10 yrs down the road and be fearful due to MS.  Though that is a responsible thing to do, and you should give it careful consideration, it's just not worth living in fear.

I hope you like it here with us and that your Dr. is talking about disease modifying drugs for you.  

The others should come along soon to welcome you!

See you around!
Shell