Multiple Sclerosis (MS) Support Group
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There may come a time in your life where you need to have a spinal tap. If you must, then you must. But exhaust all other options first.
I had a useless one done. I had already been diagnosed with MS for 10 years based on many factors, by an MS specialist. Then, I had to switch doctors (he is a sleep disorder specialist) and this a$$hole said I did not have MS but rather sleep apnea without even looking at my MRIs, examining me or discussing my symptoms. He said the only test he would go by is the spinal tap.
I should have said no. I knew he was a quack. But I was in such an emotional state, I agreed.
A month later, I cannot bend without pain. There is sever nerve damage done. A part of my spine is completely numb. and then pain radiates beyond that point. I am in constant pain.
I am not sure of it was the spinal tap or the blood patch I had to have afterwards that did the damage. But her ran an unnecessary test and %@#$! me over for life.
I am lucky, I guess. I could have been paralyzed.
So, if you must have a spinal tap, have one. But do some serious thinking about it first. Ask questions, make sure it is a LAST resort.
I had a useless one done. I had already been diagnosed with MS for 10 years based on many factors, by an MS specialist. Then, I had to switch doctors (he is a sleep disorder specialist) and this a$$hole said I did not have MS but rather sleep apnea without even looking at my MRIs, examining me or discussing my symptoms. He said the only test he would go by is the spinal tap.
I should have said no. I knew he was a quack. But I was in such an emotional state, I agreed.
A month later, I cannot bend without pain. There is sever nerve damage done. A part of my spine is completely numb. and then pain radiates beyond that point. I am in constant pain.
I am not sure of it was the spinal tap or the blood patch I had to have afterwards that did the damage. But her ran an unnecessary test and %@#$! me over for life.
I am lucky, I guess. I could have been paralyzed.
So, if you must have a spinal tap, have one. But do some serious thinking about it first. Ask questions, make sure it is a LAST resort.
I am glad that I had mine done. I would not have been diagnosed without it. I also have the peace of mind that it is not another disease mimicking MS.
I have known several people in the past couple of years that have been un-diagnosed because they switched neurologists. Had they had spinal taps in the first place, they most likely would not have been diagnosed with MS and the real disease could have been better treated.