How do you feel when hearing the term " pseudo-relapse"?

For me I guess it is the stigma associated with the word "pseudo" that just sends a rage through my soul.

I have been having some issues lately (last 30 days) of a severe UTI testing as e-coli, coupled with coughing blood and vomiting issues. The esophagus issues causing the blood/vomiting are a result of either blockage or narrowing in the esophagus (which I have had in the past requiring a balloon treatment to control the narrowing) or a moderate size hiatal hernia found years ago is rearing its ugly head... none the less my PCP and appt. next week with a Gastro specialist will be getting to the bottom of this issue.

Back to my story today... given all my body has been fighting and going through recently I have REALLY noticed my MS symptoms especially in terms of pain/spasticity etc. from knees to toes is going bonkers....

Since my level of mobility has worsened over the past few days, I figured it was time to make a phone call to my neurologist and give them a heads up. I already have an appt with them in 2 weeks, but just wanted to make them aware that I think since my body has been weak due to all the other issues, it seems to be worsening my MS. The return phone call from the PA confirmed my suspicion but when I heard the word "pseudo" I got bent out of shape.

I was told years ago that I was having "pseudo seizures" and even treated with seizure meds... I was horrified to hear that term... thinking how is it "pseudo" when in fact I passed out with no memory of moments before or after this so called "pseudo" event.

I also lost my temper when last year fighting for my ability to walk again after a long battle with bi-lateral pulmonary embolisms, DVT's, sepsis, and MRSA had me fighting with all I had in physical therapy to be able to walk again... a physical therapist who was trying to teach me to get up off the ground if I fell... used that term "pseudo" and stated "there is nothing really wrong with you, it's all in your head"... clearly showing this FOOL had no idea what MS was or what goes on... I was beyond horrified, and the other physical therapist personnel reported this fool, and quickly jumped to my aid...

So my question today is.... do you feel rage when hearing the term "pseudo"? Do you feel as if it is not giving validity to the pain or problem you are experiencing? Do you feel that the term is calling you a liar of sorts in the pain, agony, and difficulty you are experiencing?

I want to learn how to not feel defeated by those 6 letters (pseudo)... and to learn how to know it is real, it is valid, and it is not making me out to be a "crazy person"... I know it is just a word, and what I feel is a true neurological symptom that today I'm experiencing and have experienced... I know a MRI at the moment would probably not show an enhancing lesion, but the reality is my body is weak, and the infection(s) from other issues are the culprit that are causing me to be having a surge in problems in my mobility level... and that in time as the other issues raging in my body are resolved this will slow as well....

I know all that... so why does that 1 word have me feeling this way? Would love to hear what others have experienced and words of wisdom from the best community.... THE MS COMMUNITY... love to all!

-Terri

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