Multiple Sclerosis

[DeeDee2005]

I was diagnosed with MS 4 years ago.  I am 47 now.  I had no changes in my MRI for 3 years and then last summer 3 new lesions appeared on my MRI.  The hospital had a new MRI machine since the last time and the doctor attributed these lesions to the new MRI.  I have had increased symptoms of fatigue and in recent weeks a tingling along both of my legs, my feet hurt and I am having alot of back pain that sort of circles around.  Should I start with my PCP to see if it is my back or go straight to my neurologist?

I am on Copaxone, but I was off of the shots for 6 mos prior to this last MRI for insurance reasons.  My concern is that I developed these lesions while off of my shots and what I have been feeling are the results of this lapse in treatment.

[HVAC]

It is criminal when people can not get or stay on DMDs in the U.S.A. because of cost. I was told by my Neurologist damage can happen even without symptoms so not to go off the Copaxone. Sounds like you had no choice.

If you can afford a Neurologist I would start there. If not the PCP. I can't afford my Neurologist so I often talk to my other Dr. first.

Alex

[Lulu54]

Hi DD, welcome to the MS forum here at Medhelp.  I hope you will find the information useful and the companionship agreeable.  

The advice I keep hearing from every corner is *start with the neurologist* - that way MS can either be ruled in or out as the cause of new problems. When you say the pain sort of circles around your back, it makes me think of that MS hug syndrome.  

I'm sorry to hear you're showing more signs of this MiSerable disease.  

Welcome again and I hope we will see you around.

my best,
Lulu

[jensequitur]

I'm off the shots right now, because I have no money for the co-pay.  So I can understand your concern - but I had relapses while on Copaxone, too.

Your description of pain that circles around makes me think you might have a lesion in your back as well - I would definitely go to the neurologist first.