Multiple Sclerosis (MS) Support Group
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Hi, first time here.
I have recently had a number of symptoms that point towards a diagnosis of MS. Two of my aunties had MS, so it has been on my radar as a possibility. Currently moving through a series of tests to rule out other options but it is slow going. Wondering what other people experienced as their first symptoms and how they progressed towards getting a diagnosis?
I am 55 years old and my main symptom is PAIN. Constant shifting pain in muscles and joints, especially in my arms and legs. This has been going on for a few years now but recently has become especially severe in my hands and feet. Lately I have developed numbness and tingling in my fingers and toes which has progressed quickly to my hands, wrists and elbows. The burning numbness is there constantly now. I have been getting frequent urine infections and was also diagnosed with atrial fibrillation a year ago.
I have had all the relevant scans and tests for rheumatoid/ osteoarthritis/ autoimmune disorders. All negative
Recent blood tests showed normal glucose and thyroid levels but elevated ALT, creatinine and globulins.
I have a GP who fortunately takes me seriously when I describe my symptoms but I live in a remote area and would have to wait 12 months to see a neurologist.
Can anyone give me any advice regarding symptoms and diagnosis?
Much appreciated
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Usually I get a daily influx of emails on health topics. An article from Dr. Mercola really stood out recently though because it mentioned that fat cells have their own mitochondria. Not only was this the first I'd heard of this, he also mentioned that fat serves a purpose in our metabolism. Another new factoid for me. The bottom line for me was to appreciate that even our fat cells play a...
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I just do not feel well and I really think that it's because I cried yesterday on my way to work about my Aunt who is in the hospital. I don't think that we will have her much longer. She is very frail. Now she needs help eating. So, this is the third time in a year that I felt this way after crying. I think crying releases toxins into my body. I also worked up a sweat at the gym...
I found that regular GP's have not tested for thyroid correctly. I did see a naturopath MD for a few years and she had the tests run that I needed. Your symptoms don't sound like thyroid related ones to me though.
It's great to have a doctor that really listens. So, that's a blessing in itself, for you. :)
UTI's can be related to MS, but so many things can! For me, it was my first symptom. My bladder wasn't emptying. When urine accumulates if the bladder is not voiding completely, it can cause infection (from what I understand).
I've never been one to have pain with my MS although some people have a lot of it. My aunt had fibromyalgia and that may be something for which your doctors will test. Rather than worry ahead of time, I'd make sure you are getting exercise eating whole foods as much as you can.
I've had MS for at least 15 years. For me, the heat aggravates my symptoms to no end. Try not to worry while waiting to get answers. I know that's easier said than done . Also remember that sometimes, as with thyroid, regular doctors do very basic testing which doesn't reveal the imbalances. Results that they call fine can be based on the fact that they don't scrutinize those "normal" levels enough, or they don't test for serum levels and such. For thyroid, most only test TSH and then say "it's fine." But there's T4, T3, free T3, etc.
Anyway, all the best to you!