Re: New and Confused

John Pesec (pesec_john(AT)keithley.com)
Wed, 22 Jan 97 10:33:31 EDT

To Ed K.,

My understanding is every case of TM is different. The
majority are one shot occurrences, thought to be caused by
the immune system responding to some "event" like stress,
trauma, or viral infection. When TM becomes recurrent, it is
then very similar to MS, but if the lesions remains in the
same place in the spine, and certain other tests are false,
the diagnose can be recurrent TM.

Recurrent TM can become MS. I do not know of a definitive
study that sites the likelihood of this. Some neurologists
say that it is an eventuality in every case, and it is just
a matter of time.

As for your many strange symptoms, please remember that your
body is going through tremendous change, and it takes time
to adjust to different neurological function. In addition,
you may be taking many medicines that have unpredictable
side effects. Also, depression and anxiety can also have
physical symptoms.

John P.

______________________________ Reply Separator _________________________________
Subject: New and Confused
Author: tmic-list(AT)eskimo.com at SMTPLINK-ISD
Date: 1/21/97 11:09 PM

Hi Folks.

I have been severely depressed about my diagnosis of TM (4th of July this
year), and have been struggling to pull out of it. I'm new to this group, but
over the last few days worth of postings, I've drawn strength from seeing how
other people are affected. I guess that's what a support group is for.
However, after reading many of these postings, I am now really confused (and
somewhat worried).

My neuro says its "definitely" TM, and that it was a one-shot occurrence -
whatever damage I suffered may or may not get better, but won't get worse.
If any other symptoms arise, then its likely MS. So I go on day by day
trying to convince myself that I'm lucky - I can still walk, though it's
difficult. But some of you folks are talking about relapses and recurrences
of TM "episodes", some better, some worse than others. Is there such a thing
as chronic TM? If so, how is it different than MS?

Also, I haven't seen any reference to symptoms of increased hand tremors,
general nervousness, irritability (mood swings) and dyslexic symptoms. Any
lucky people fighting these as well as the standard motor problems?

Thanx for your support. I'll try and do the same for you someday!!!

Ed K.