Do I Have MS?

Q:  I was admitted to the hospital with symptoms...had a CT scan positive result for MS but was then told that my MRI showed no MS. I am still suffering symptoms. I never had a spinal tap to confirm. Could I still have MS? I have had bladder incontinence for months, bowel problems, and now suffer left leg muscle weakness. I was put on steroids that eased symptoms but am still suffering weakness, tingling hands, feet, and face. Please help looking for answers.

A:  Establishing a diagnosis for neurological problems is complicated; at a minimum it requires the skillful elucidation of your history, a detailed examination and correct interpretation of your diagnostic evaluation. Some of the statements is your question suggest at a minimum either misinterpretation of your diagnostic evaluation or failure of the doctors to clearly explain their findings to you. I would strongly suggest another opinion if your current doctors have not been able to either provide you with a diagnosis or give you an adequate explanation for your symptoms. It would be difficult if not impossible for me or any doctor to provide any further help without seeing you.

I don't know where you live, but there are excellent clinics across the country with physicians who specialize in MS.  You can use a listing from the NMSS website as a starting point to find an MS clinic in your area...CLICK HERE.  This link allows you to enter your zip code and click on "Centers for Comprehensive MS Care." If you let us know where you live, we might also be able to provide some guidance.

I also suggest reading the links below in preparation for getting a second opinion:

http://www.healthcarejourney.com/physician-blog/the-diagnosis-of-multiple-sclerosis-ms

http://www.healthcarejourney.com/physician-blog/how-to-prepare-for-a-visit-to-your-ms-specialist-the-present-and-the-future

Good luck

-Rip Kinkel, MD