Multiple Sclerosis (MS) Support Group

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Second Opinion - At what Point?

deleted_user
deleted_user
At what point do you go for a 2nd opinion and how do you ask for one?

Hello All, I am new to the site...and MS. I have been dealing with Doctors for 3 years, mostly for Migraines, but with the presence of lesions and the most recent cognitive and physical issues that have been presenting themselves I think its time to go further. My neurologist is only looking at MS due to the shape, placement and pattern of my lesions, however has not given a diagnosis due to a normal results on the visual evoked and spinal tap. I do have numbness in my chin and surrounding face and neck and at times tingling in my back, right arm and hand. The worst is the cognitive. I don't trust myself talk anymore or my mood swings...all of which is new in the last few months.

Do I press the issue of a second opinion or do I sit and wait for whatever it is he's waiting for?
deleted_user
deleted_user
Most of us here have had several opinions. Personally, I have been to 2 research universities, a neuro and 1 MS specialist, If your Dr is really good they we demand another opinion. GO ROCKIES!!! I lived in Congress Park for 3 yrs!!
deleted_user
deleted_user
I was thru many opinions too, actually, my primary doctor suggested it. If your doctor doesn't suggest it,I would ask him to get you a 2nd opinion if you need a referral,if you don't, just get one on your own. Good luck.
deleted_user
deleted_user
Thank you, all of you. I have been so gun shy with doctors. Before this Neurologist I was told so many things even "go home there's nothing wrong" and "some people just have to deal with these things on a daily basis", I took it as I'm a whimp and I need to suck it up. Now I need an answer. This is affecting everything.

Thanks again!
deleted_user
deleted_user
I was just diagnosed this summer. I looked into what hospitals had good MS centers in the area (Boston - sorry, go SOX :) I made an appt at a city hospital w. a good drep in MS, but couldn't get an appt until December. I've ordered copies of my test results from my local hospital to bring with me, but already started treatment. I'll just feel better getting another opinion even though I feel we're on the right track. My insurance covers a 2nd opinion and it's my understanding that it's common practice to get one. I mentioned to my current Dr that I was going in Dec cfor a 2nd opinion and she barely flinched. Good luck. -Diane
deleted_user
deleted_user
a friend of mine, who also has MS, was told treated by her primary doctor for migraines and told to go to an ENT for her dizziness. She knew that that was not all it was and switched doctors. the doctor ordered an MRI immediately and that is how she got diagnosed. Trust yourself and your instincts and go for that second opinion.
dona
deleted_user
deleted_user
I've been through several doctors now. I'm not a big whiner, but when I have a problem, I needed someone who was commited with helping me through it. The first two didn't fit. The third one, I got because I asked around for a lot of opinions on specialists. The best info I got actually came from my eye doctor. Started with him because of optic neuritis, and to this day, 4 years later, the man keeps up with me every six months. Tells me if I don't like who I'm going to...he'll find someone new for me. Definitely go for seconod opinions. Even third or fourth if you feel you need it. This is your health, and your life, and it's worth it.
deleted_user
deleted_user
Did your doctor tell you what he's waiting for? By all means, get a second opinion at any time you feel that your case isn't being met. xoxoxo
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