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MS Symptoms but don't want to look like hypochondriac

Posted , 3 users are following.

nigel59319
nigel59319

Hi

I've currently got a bulging disc between my L5-S1 so am getting nerve pain in both legs. Im on 1.5g of Gabapentin. Male and 38

I was looking at different potential problems online and happens to notice I've had a couple of signs or MS and I'd like some advice to see if it's me just looking for it or actually there.

I'm clumsy and never used to be, i at least drop 5-10 things a day. I did martial arts for years so was very balanced and steady

Before my lower back problems I've been getting tremors on and off in my right arm (8-9 months).

I slur words some times now where as I didn't used to a year ago. I also sometimes get words wrong in sentences (I used to be very articulate as it was part of my job).

I can be going one task then forget I'm doing it and start something else.

About 6 months ago I got pain next to my right eye and also suffered some numbness.

I pee very frequently (8-10 times a day min) and dribble forever after.

Sometimes my arms feel tight and heavy.

Every so often (very infrequently) I get twitched/small jurking in my limbs.

What do people think, am I collecting simple things together and looking for something?

Thank you

0 likes, 4 replies

4 Replies

  • wendy80842
    wendy80842 nigel59319

    Posted

    Hi Nigel, I have MS, while, statistically, you probably don't have MS, as you've already worked out, it can't categorically be ruled out.

    Yes, your symptoms MIGHT be MS. I recommend going to the UK, MS society website, it's a great source of information, the forum's great for connecting with, both diagnosed people and others who are in the same position as you.

    The accepted diagnostic tools for MS diagnosis are:

    MRI's, typically more than one set (usually of both the brain and upper spine). They would be looking for damage to the myelin coating around the central nervous system AND for an increase of the damage.

    Oligoclonic bands in cerebrospinal fluid. Fluid taken by lumbar puncture.

    Again, it probably won't be MS, but I can see why you're suspecting it.

    Keep an ongoing record of symptoms, times of both start AND end of any symptoms and questions or concerns. The record can be handy for medical appointments.

  • bic24773
    bic24773 nigel59319

    Posted

    Hi. I had fusc problems in sane area for many years, I also had other symptoms and then I got spontaneous finger movements, I asked the orthopaedic consultant if it could be ms and he said that's why we're referring you to a physician ..the physician turned out to be a neurologist. Yes I have ms. I also was in gabapentin and tegretol and tramadol and other drugs. I was offered injections in my spine by pain clinic and a back op by orthopaedic. Against neurologist advice I took the back op because that appt cane first. It helped a lot, I was able to come out of a wheelchair and get back to work on crutches. Itd nkt cured my ms and I get back spasms that give me sciatica but for 20 years I've been a lot better and only now getting worse. Please don't think an Ms diagnosis is a death sentence ..it isn't. Mum had it, she died in October aged 80 suddenly after an operation she never recovered from. You can have a long life, you just have to manage yourself and rest

    Good luck kindest Lorraine

  • nigel59319
    nigel59319

    Posted

    Hi

    Thank you both for your replies.

    Ironically I had a call from the muscular skeletal specialist just after my post saying after looking at the MRI if my lower back and symptoms she wants me to see the back surgeon.

    So I'm going to see the surgeon, have the surgery then look at any recurrence of symptoms.

    Thanks for the advise of keeping a diary I might do that. Is it a good idea to make a note of where and how long my numb patches last?

    • wendy80842
      wendy80842 nigel59319

      Posted

      I'm glad you're getting somewhere with the medics. Yes, I'd record anything suspect, as you're wondering about possible neuro symptoms. As you've considered MS, if there's a chance that it is, it's helpful to record both start AND end dates of weird symptoms, as it's the nature of a lot of people's MS to be relapsing/remitting. I'd recommend having a QUICK scan over of POSSIBLE symptoms of MS, then simply record anything odd you're aware of. It's best not to keep reading things about it, as you could end up experiencing psychosomatic symptoms. Focus on healing after your surgery. I'd advise finding some kind of simple relaxation techniques, as it's always a handy minor life skill.

      Good luck. X

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