I want a second opinion but don't want to offend my neurologist

Here is My Question:
I was diagnosed with ms in 2012 at age 63. I had many symptoms for many years that went undiagnosed, including hearing loss. I had 2 MRI's in the beginning (one with and one without contrast). I have noticed my memory has gotten worse, along with terrible ear noises, confusion (driving and can't remember where I'm going, etc). Should a person have a repeat MRI when noticing new or worsening symptoms? I have also developed this very unusual "smell" (almost strong floral-like). People keep telling me "I told you that" and don't remember at all. It is so frustrating. I also see words wrong, or numbers. No one has ever addressed this or helped me with this. What can I do? Would it be wrong of me to see an MS specialist at the Cleveland Clinic (Ohio)? My neuro is much closer, but there are so few around here. I want to talk to him about that but I don't want to offend him or I don't want him to stop seeing me. I also have confusion and problem solving has become much more difficult, which I used to pride myself on. Any advice would be much appreciated. I am so happy I found this site! Thank you.

Answer:
I appreciate the frustration you have experienced in your quest to obtain answers to your concerns. If I am correct, you are asking me whether it is a good idea for you to obtain a second opinion from the Cleveland Clinic. I can think of several good reasons for you to obtain a second opinion:

1. You were diagnosed at the age of 63 which is unusual for an MS diagnosis although possible

2. You have unanswered questions as to the cause for a number of your symptoms

3. Some of your symptoms could have more than one explanation

I am a big believer in second opinions and would encourage you to discuss this openly with your current doctor. The Cleveland clinic Mellen Center would be an excellent resource for this second opinion.

You may also want to read a previous blog I wrote on hearing loss and abnormal smell in MS http://www.healthcarejourney.com/hearing-or-smell-or-taste-changes.html

And the cognitive dysfunction page on this site http://www.healthcarejourney.com/cognitive-dysfunction.html

Good luck.

Revere Kinkel MD
Director of the UCSD Multiple Sclerosis Program