When I first started having symptoms (weakness and numbness in right
shoulder, arm and hand), I had a MRI of my spine. Came back and doc showed
me the film, he thought I had cancer (spot between C2-3 was quite large) or
MS. He ordered a MRI of the brain but it came back normal. Spinal fluid
had low levels of myelin basic protein (?) but pretty much normal. Had
bloodwork for hepatitis, lupus, everything. All normal. So, in September
only one lesion at C2-3. Lesion was still there in October (but smaller,
less inflammed) but never had a follow-up on brain. I kind of hope he
suggests another MRI on the brain this time because I would like to see if
anything is going on up there (usually not much)!! He ruled out cancer
because of my protein level and because the area shrunk. He also said no
to MS because only the one lesion. But, I am lucky that my right arm has
recovered to about 75%. I do work full-time. Been getting fatigued a lot
probably because of lack of rest and stress. Feel guilty for taking time
off because overall I look healthy. Constipation is a problem. At times I
feel as if I am going to explode (feel like I drank a 5 gallons of water at
once). My neuro is nice but always feel that I am burdening him with yet
another problem. I have seen him only once since October but just feel
dumb going in there. In October, he told me that I just had TM and a mild
case (since I was able to walk and all) and that he hoped he never saw me
again but to come back if I developed other symptoms and to read up on MS.
Was that just trying to make me feel better? NOT! Then when I went to see
him in February for the six month follow-up, had back pain and hand still
somewhat numb and weak, he was more open about discussing what I might
expect. He told me to follow an exercise program (swimming) and to avoid
getting overheated and stressed out. He also told me to fax him
occassionally and let him know how I am doing. Haven't faxed him ever.
But, did decide to call this time because my eyesight is rather important
to me. Sorry, but I have been a little bummed out this week. Debated
getting a second opinion a long time ago but never did. Wondering if I
should now. Often I wonder what difference does it make because there is
not much they can do or know anyway. Sorry again for the blah mood. I am
usually a little more upbeat and positive. I hope you are feeling better
and work goes OK for you.
Nicole
11:15 AM 5/7/97 -0500, you wrote:
>At 09:37 AM 5/7/97 -0500, you wrote:
>>Elyse,
>>
>>I have been diagnosed with TM (Sept 96). Back in October had sort of the
>>same problem and right eye changed drastically, kind of weird since the TM
>>mainly affected my right side (shoulder, arm, hand and upper trunk). A
>>neurosurgeon I saw thought I should have the evoked potential (vision) test
>>but my neuro claimed that in Austin, doctor's are not very familiar with it
>>so it would not be much use (not accurate). Anyway, I did schedule an
>>appointment with my neurologist for Friday. Don't know what he can do
>>about it.
>>
>>Nicole
>>At 07:48 PM 5/6/97 -0500, you wrote:
>>>Hi Nicole:
>>>At 05:38 PM 5/6/97 -0500, you wrote:
>>>>While we are on the subject of MS & TM, I have to bring up something
really
>>>>weird that happened to me this weekend.<snip>
>>>>Nicole
>>>---Have you been diagnosed with MS or TM? Has your neurologist ever
>>>mentioned optic neuritis? I never had double vision,but severe eye pain,saw
>>>dark spots,vision diminished drastically.Optic neuritis was the
beginning of
>>>my MS-from there it has been fairly progressive. I believe you should let
>>>you neurologist know. You may need to have a field vision test. I recently
>>>had prisms put in my glasses --it has made a world of difference. I also
had
>>>bad headaches.Hope this helps.
>>>Elyse
>>>
> Nicole,
>----I am glad you have an appt. with your neurologist on Friday. Have you
>had an MRI? Are you able to work? I have been off work since the end of Feb.
>I am going back this afternoon for several hrs.We will see how it goes. I
>have to be extremely careful of overdoing.Once the fatigue hits,it just
>flattens me.Do you have any bowel or bladder problems? Has the diagnosis of
>MS ever been brought up? Just curious. There seem to be some similar
>symptoms with both. Hope your eyes are some better.
>Elyse
>>
>>
>
>
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