TM first cousin to MS
sjhanan(AT)e-z.net
Tue, 10 Jun 1997 12:17:59 -0700
Hi,.......my name is Jackie, and I have had TM for 15 years, but I
didn't know it until now. I had my first attack in '81, that left me in
the hospital not being able to walk, and the upper right side of my body
disabled. I thought after an adjustment to my neck by a Chiropracter
prior to the attack was the reason for my symptoms. The drs. didn't know
what was going on because all the tests came back "normal", so they
diagnosed me as the "mystery" patient. During the 10 days I was in the
hosp. I had physical therapy that got me walking again, but my right arm
and hand has never regained total function. I continued to be as active
as I could, playing tennis, teaching school, and numerous other sports.
In 1988 I had another attack that left me unable to walk for 3 days
again.
My right hand/arm still was swollen, and stiff, but I could walk again.
In 1991 I had another attack, and this time it affected my walking, and
my right foot dropped. I've never regained full use of my right leg. In
1994 I was diagnosed as having MS. A cervical MRI showed a large lesion
between C5 an C7.
I was ok with that dx for awhile, but as time went on I got to thinking
about the "multiple" part of the MS, and so I had another brain MRI done
to look for more lesions. I had evoked potentials and audio tests done
too, and at that time it was suggested I might have TM if they don't
find anymore lesions.
Well I just got all the results back yesterday, and my "official"
diagnosis now is Progressive/Remitting Transverse Myelitis. My Dr. said
it is a first cousin to MS.
She is a Neurologist with the Oregon Health Science University, head of
the MS unit.
She also said that you can have TM without lesions. Also, the injury you
have will consist of the area below the lesion, if you have one.
She said they don't know what causes it, but it's not from an actual
injury to the spinal cord, but possibly a "virus".
I was also diagnosed with Fibromyalgia back in 1984, and it too has
progressed along with the TM. I have all over body pain everyday,
swelling, and stiffness. I've recently been having more trouble with
muscle contractions, and bladder infections.
I take Percocet for the pain, Soma or Zanaflex for the spasms. I try to
maintain a positive attitude most of the time, but I allow myself
grieving times too. I have a strong faith in God, and realize that it's
been by His grace that has sustained my mental and emotional senses.
That helps me cope.
I'd love to discuss anything anyone wants to ask, or share.
Smiles from Jackie in Vancouver, Wa. [anyone else in the area?
Portland/Vancouver]