If you've ever had a clear MRI does that mean you don't have MS?

[sws132]

I have MS symptoms and have had them for a long time.  I got an MRI about 8 years ago for severe headaches.  It was clear of any lesions and the doctor said I definitely didn't have MS.  I continue to have symptoms off and on that consist of mild numbness and tingling, headaches and dizziness.  I have severe anxiety and it's entirely possible my numbness/tingling are due to this but I worry I have MS.  Does anyone know if you have ever had an MRI and it was clear, if that means you definitely will never have lesions that show MS?  I guess what I'm asking is if I have MS now, would it definitely have shown up 8 years ago on the MRI and if I can rest assured it's not MS.  I can't get another MRI as I have no medical insurance.  Thanks.

[sws132]

Thanks, Terri.  I don't have a doctor at this time.  Again, because of no insurance.  I am just kind of trying to handle it all and not let it bother me too much.  The worry does get pretty bad sometimes.  I have a cousin who was diagnosed with MS at age 22, so it is very worrisome.  I have taken Topamax for migraines before it and it really helped.

[tjj3761]

Hi,

It has been 7 years now since my initial onset of MS.  All of my MRIs to date, including one 2 months ago, still have shown no lesions.

You absolutely can have MS even with clear MRIs.  If you look in the health pages, I believe Quix posted a page on this.

For years on the forum, when I was looking for answers, many reiterated that it can take years and years to get diagnosed with MS.

I hope your physician is treating your symptoms at this time.  Gabapentin and Lyrica are used for neuropathic tingling/numbness and pain; Cymbalta is a good one to help headaches plus Imitrex, Relpax, Topamax (migraine meds).  

I hope this will be of help to you.

Terri

[jensequitur]

No problem - hang in there, and take care of yourself!

[sws132]

Thank you for your response.

[jensequitur]

Severe anxiety can cause numbness and tingling, and severe headaches (migraines) can cause dizziness.

There is a percentage of people without lesions that have MS, but I would say that because your symptoms haven't changed, then you should be fine.