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Subcorticial Hyperintensities
Hello -
Some years ago, I was diagnosed with Vertigo which would only occur maybe once a year. Last year, while working out, I had noticed that my feet would feel weird when using the elliptical machines which triggered a help anxiety. After visiting my doctor several times a week, she had ordered an EEG exam. My mother had Epilepsy so that was a concern of mine. The EEG came back normal, however, the Strobelight portion had freaked me out and caused a Panic Attack. Then after, I had an MRI of the Brain to which showed T2 Hyperintensities. My Neuro then sent me for a second MRI w/ contrast which has revealed the same findings as the first. I have an Uncle who is battling MS and I am concerned that this may also be the same situation in my case. Please see a list of symptoms below and the Findings and conclusion on my MRI reports. In addition, I've also had MRI's of the Neck and Spine, No lesions, just a bunch of bulges and herniation's. I have also visited with an Ophthalmologist who says that my Optic Nerves looked Fine through the Slit Lamp exam and was diagnosed with Dry eyes. Having an EMG exam this friday.
My symptoms are, Dry Eyes, Tension Headaches, Jaw Pain from TMJ, Dry Sinus and Dry Mouth( even after drinking over 120 ozs of water), Neck Pain, shoulder pain, arm pain on the bottom of both sides, numbness in pinky and ring fingers on the left hand. just this week, I am having difficulties standing still, mostly when i am anxious.
As per the MRI report - Subcortical Hyperintensities, They are not significant in appearance. They're unchanged in appearnace, There is no evidence of abnormal enhancement of any of these foci. The differential diagnosis remaind as described on the previous study and includes small vessel disease or perhaps old infection, old inflamation or even old trauma. There is no mass effect. Ventricles and sulci remain unchanged in size with no evidence of hydrocephalus.
Can someone please help me understand this as my anxiety level is through the roof. In addition, I feel as this has affected my family as i am always depressed and crying. Your input is greatly appreciated.
Thanks! Belleisbroken
Some years ago, I was diagnosed with Vertigo which would only occur maybe once a year. Last year, while working out, I had noticed that my feet would feel weird when using the elliptical machines which triggered a help anxiety. After visiting my doctor several times a week, she had ordered an EEG exam. My mother had Epilepsy so that was a concern of mine. The EEG came back normal, however, the Strobelight portion had freaked me out and caused a Panic Attack. Then after, I had an MRI of the Brain to which showed T2 Hyperintensities. My Neuro then sent me for a second MRI w/ contrast which has revealed the same findings as the first. I have an Uncle who is battling MS and I am concerned that this may also be the same situation in my case. Please see a list of symptoms below and the Findings and conclusion on my MRI reports. In addition, I've also had MRI's of the Neck and Spine, No lesions, just a bunch of bulges and herniation's. I have also visited with an Ophthalmologist who says that my Optic Nerves looked Fine through the Slit Lamp exam and was diagnosed with Dry eyes. Having an EMG exam this friday.
My symptoms are, Dry Eyes, Tension Headaches, Jaw Pain from TMJ, Dry Sinus and Dry Mouth( even after drinking over 120 ozs of water), Neck Pain, shoulder pain, arm pain on the bottom of both sides, numbness in pinky and ring fingers on the left hand. just this week, I am having difficulties standing still, mostly when i am anxious.
As per the MRI report - Subcortical Hyperintensities, They are not significant in appearance. They're unchanged in appearnace, There is no evidence of abnormal enhancement of any of these foci. The differential diagnosis remaind as described on the previous study and includes small vessel disease or perhaps old infection, old inflamation or even old trauma. There is no mass effect. Ventricles and sulci remain unchanged in size with no evidence of hydrocephalus.
Can someone please help me understand this as my anxiety level is through the roof. In addition, I feel as this has affected my family as i am always depressed and crying. Your input is greatly appreciated.
Thanks! Belleisbroken
Really no problem Leslie
Sometimes trying to 'snap out of it' needs a helping hand from the experts and that's the right thing to do.
I'm well thanks, just back from a super holiday.
Nx
Sometimes trying to 'snap out of it' needs a helping hand from the experts and that's the right thing to do.
I'm well thanks, just back from a super holiday.
Nx
Thank you Alex, I've outsourced a few psychs, Hopefully I can get an appt. soon.
Hi Rachel -
Thanks for responding. It's been really hard to shake the stress and anxiety. I feel myself slowly coming out of it this rut. I hope this note finds you well.
All the best,
Leslie
Thanks for responding. It's been really hard to shake the stress and anxiety. I feel myself slowly coming out of it this rut. I hope this note finds you well.
All the best,
Leslie
Going to a Psychiatrist is good because if you do not have psychiatric problems the neurologist can't go in that direction. My psychiatrist said I had neurological problems. I was stressed but it was mostly from going to doctors. I went to counseling after my diagnosis to help deal with the depression and stress of having MS.
Alex
Alex
Hi again Belle
That's really good news, hope you got that part, good news! The big nasties have been kicked out!
Brain fog can be caused by all sorts of things, lack of sleep, stress and anxiety etc so I would go back to your GP as your Neurologist has suggested and see what options and avenues are open for you to get that sorted out. He should have contacts for suitable other medical specialists it that's needed.
He will be able to suggest suitable treatment options for the small vessel disease too as appropriate.
You've been through a worrying time, it's natural to have heightened stress levels, if they are tipping over into an unhealthy level though there are things out there to help you - I know this, I've been in a dark place myself many years ago. You've said you feel something is wrong, anxiety at this extent is 'something wrong' so you are right and getting that sorted will really make you feel better.
The saying 'a weight off your shoulders' for example refers to reducing stress and making you feel 'lighter' and more relaxed. By allowing yourself to do that you'll be much more comfortable and you'll feel your anxieties and worries floating away.
It's good to come back on the forum to seek guidance or confirmation. Your doctor/GP will be able to get you 'well' again. As JJ said "be brave" if you can 'speak' to us, you can to the Doc too. Write some notes if you need help before you go, and let us know how you get on.
Nx
That's really good news, hope you got that part, good news! The big nasties have been kicked out!
Brain fog can be caused by all sorts of things, lack of sleep, stress and anxiety etc so I would go back to your GP as your Neurologist has suggested and see what options and avenues are open for you to get that sorted out. He should have contacts for suitable other medical specialists it that's needed.
He will be able to suggest suitable treatment options for the small vessel disease too as appropriate.
You've been through a worrying time, it's natural to have heightened stress levels, if they are tipping over into an unhealthy level though there are things out there to help you - I know this, I've been in a dark place myself many years ago. You've said you feel something is wrong, anxiety at this extent is 'something wrong' so you are right and getting that sorted will really make you feel better.
The saying 'a weight off your shoulders' for example refers to reducing stress and making you feel 'lighter' and more relaxed. By allowing yourself to do that you'll be much more comfortable and you'll feel your anxieties and worries floating away.
It's good to come back on the forum to seek guidance or confirmation. Your doctor/GP will be able to get you 'well' again. As JJ said "be brave" if you can 'speak' to us, you can to the Doc too. Write some notes if you need help before you go, and let us know how you get on.
Nx
Hello Everyone -
It's me again! Hope everyone is doing well. Here's an update to my story. Just recently I went for a second opinion in regards to my previous MRI scans. My new neurologist requested that I have a Third MRI due to the poor readings on my last scans. Per the Radiologist, the scans show small vessel disease which is what the first radiologist suggested. Also mentioned Lyme, ALS and MS are significantly less likely. However, I cannot get this out of my head and still feel as though something is wrong.
I find myself having brain fog more often and also finding it hard to have conversations with my coworkers. Could this be related to cognitive dysfunction or anxiety. My Neurologist suggested that I seek out a psychiatrist which is hard to come by here in ny.
Not sure if anyone will be able to assist me with this post but felt the need to just speak to someone.
It's me again! Hope everyone is doing well. Here's an update to my story. Just recently I went for a second opinion in regards to my previous MRI scans. My new neurologist requested that I have a Third MRI due to the poor readings on my last scans. Per the Radiologist, the scans show small vessel disease which is what the first radiologist suggested. Also mentioned Lyme, ALS and MS are significantly less likely. However, I cannot get this out of my head and still feel as though something is wrong.
I find myself having brain fog more often and also finding it hard to have conversations with my coworkers. Could this be related to cognitive dysfunction or anxiety. My Neurologist suggested that I seek out a psychiatrist which is hard to come by here in ny.
Not sure if anyone will be able to assist me with this post but felt the need to just speak to someone.
COMMUNITY LEADER
Hi and welcome,
I also agree that it's unlikely MS, it's possible your "bunch of bulges and herniation's" in your spine are the reason behind your EMG/NCV indicating a peripheral issue.
Your neurologist will explain the why of it all on Friday but in the mean time I honestly believe your mental health needs to take priority and i strongly advice you to pick up the phone and make an appointment with your GP to specifically discuss the your escalating anxiety and depression........be brave and speak to your doctor, change your emotional tomorrows for the better!
Hugs.....JJ
I also agree that it's unlikely MS, it's possible your "bunch of bulges and herniation's" in your spine are the reason behind your EMG/NCV indicating a peripheral issue.
Your neurologist will explain the why of it all on Friday but in the mean time I honestly believe your mental health needs to take priority and i strongly advice you to pick up the phone and make an appointment with your GP to specifically discuss the your escalating anxiety and depression........be brave and speak to your doctor, change your emotional tomorrows for the better!
Hugs.....JJ
Don't give up honeybunch things will get better.
I remember saying a little while ago that I felt I was always seeing my GP for one thing or another and maybe they were getting tired of seeing me ... nope, it's their job and they should take your worry and stress seriously let alone anything else.
In the same way you should take a list to your Neuro, do the same to your doc and let them find answers and treatment for you. If you are feeling at the end of your tether and it's affecting your family life - tell them this and ask for help. Any doctor worth their salt should respond to that plea.
Keep coming back and talking on this forum if that helps too, remember to take the advice these lovely people give you too.
Keep your head held high, make friends with your family and appreciate how much you all love each other, they'll be worried about you and you're not alone in this, parents spend their lives looking after their children whatever they do - because you love them, that's mutual so hang on to it.
Sending you a virtual warm hug, shoulder to lean on and a whole bag of sunbeams and star twinkles (they're the best things to raise your spirits!!).
Nx
I remember saying a little while ago that I felt I was always seeing my GP for one thing or another and maybe they were getting tired of seeing me ... nope, it's their job and they should take your worry and stress seriously let alone anything else.
In the same way you should take a list to your Neuro, do the same to your doc and let them find answers and treatment for you. If you are feeling at the end of your tether and it's affecting your family life - tell them this and ask for help. Any doctor worth their salt should respond to that plea.
Keep coming back and talking on this forum if that helps too, remember to take the advice these lovely people give you too.
Keep your head held high, make friends with your family and appreciate how much you all love each other, they'll be worried about you and you're not alone in this, parents spend their lives looking after their children whatever they do - because you love them, that's mutual so hang on to it.
Sending you a virtual warm hug, shoulder to lean on and a whole bag of sunbeams and star twinkles (they're the best things to raise your spirits!!).
Nx
Hi immisceo,
I have not yet visited with my Neuro, my appt is scheduled for this coming Friday. I will make a note of all of my symptoms for my next visit...
Since the Hyperintensities were discovered, depression has set in bad and its now affecting my marriage and my kids.
I do not know how to be happy anymore.
I have not yet visited with my Neuro, my appt is scheduled for this coming Friday. I will make a note of all of my symptoms for my next visit...
Since the Hyperintensities were discovered, depression has set in bad and its now affecting my marriage and my kids.
I do not know how to be happy anymore.
Thank you Rachel - I was thinking about going to visit with my GP however, Since I;ve visited with her so many times for so many different things, it's almost as if she brushes me off. I just feel so lost.
A positive EMG points away from MS, as it is related to the peripheral nervous system, not the central nervous system. The fact that certain limbs go numb based on body positioning also points away from MS.
Do you have an appointment to speak to your neurologist soon? Hopefully they will have more concrete information to help you and a plan for what to do. Don't forget to take a brief list of important questions. It's so easy to forget them when you're in the room and only have a short amount of time to speak with them.
Do you have an appointment to speak to your neurologist soon? Hopefully they will have more concrete information to help you and a plan for what to do. Don't forget to take a brief list of important questions. It's so easy to forget them when you're in the room and only have a short amount of time to speak with them.
Hi Belle
Like Kyle and Alex have said, there doesn't seem to be anything pointing to MS, your anxiety and stress levels however can cause all sorts of horrible symptoms.
Why not speak to your GP and get some help in the anxiety direction? The other tests/appointments will still carry on but you might find by reducing your anxiety levels some of these things will lessen or even stop.
Hope you find positive help with this very soon, let us all know.
Nx
Like Kyle and Alex have said, there doesn't seem to be anything pointing to MS, your anxiety and stress levels however can cause all sorts of horrible symptoms.
Why not speak to your GP and get some help in the anxiety direction? The other tests/appointments will still carry on but you might find by reducing your anxiety levels some of these things will lessen or even stop.
Hope you find positive help with this very soon, let us all know.
Nx
Hi Kyle -
It's me again, So I did go in for my EMG/NCV exam on Friday and the Therapist noted that the muscles and nerves in my right forearm are slower than the rest of my muscles. He did not go into detail with a diagnoses, just advised that my neuro would get back to me regarding treatment. This has since sent me on another downward spiral.
On my way to lunch with a friend, i noticed that both of my hands were both shaking, almost to the point that i cannot control. After a couple of drinks and some chatting, i noticed it had subsided. However, all of yesterday and today I am having the same shakes in my hands, and have also noticed that both of my feet go numb when laying down. In addition to that, this morning, while speaking with a coworker, my jaw snapped shut, almost like a crocodile, then opened again rather quickly after that.
Not sure if this is all anxiety or my nerves just getting the best of me but i feel like i am losing control of my body and my life... I dont know how much longer i can continue to do this...
It's me again, So I did go in for my EMG/NCV exam on Friday and the Therapist noted that the muscles and nerves in my right forearm are slower than the rest of my muscles. He did not go into detail with a diagnoses, just advised that my neuro would get back to me regarding treatment. This has since sent me on another downward spiral.
On my way to lunch with a friend, i noticed that both of my hands were both shaking, almost to the point that i cannot control. After a couple of drinks and some chatting, i noticed it had subsided. However, all of yesterday and today I am having the same shakes in my hands, and have also noticed that both of my feet go numb when laying down. In addition to that, this morning, while speaking with a coworker, my jaw snapped shut, almost like a crocodile, then opened again rather quickly after that.
Not sure if this is all anxiety or my nerves just getting the best of me but i feel like i am losing control of my body and my life... I dont know how much longer i can continue to do this...
Hi Belle -
I know that having symptoms without answers is scary. From what you describe, it doesn't sound like MS to me. Your symptoms are not typical of MS.
The familial thing about MS is not as clear cut as with other diseases. MS is not directly connected to genetics. What they have found is that if you have a first line family member (mother, father, sister, brother) with MS you are 2.5%-5% more likely than anyone else to get MS. In the US the chance of anyone developing MS is about 1 in 750.
So with the atypical symptoms, and only a very slightly elevated risk profile, I think you might be better served looking in other direction.
Kyle
I know that having symptoms without answers is scary. From what you describe, it doesn't sound like MS to me. Your symptoms are not typical of MS.
The familial thing about MS is not as clear cut as with other diseases. MS is not directly connected to genetics. What they have found is that if you have a first line family member (mother, father, sister, brother) with MS you are 2.5%-5% more likely than anyone else to get MS. In the US the chance of anyone developing MS is about 1 in 750.
So with the atypical symptoms, and only a very slightly elevated risk profile, I think you might be better served looking in other direction.
Kyle
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