Is the tingling in my jaw related to multiple sclerosis?

Question:
I came to my doctor with some tingling in my jaw. I assumed it was due to my TMJ that I have had for over a decade. My doctor mentioned the possibility of it being MS, and to keep him posted if I got more symptoms. Well I did. I developed such severe anxiety that I didn't sleep or eat properly for weeks. My legs eventually started getting tired, and I could no longer tell which symptoms were real and which were anxiety based. I now have experienced tired legs, a tired finger, tingling on both sides of my face that comes and goes, some days are worse than others. My doctor ordered a brain MRI which came back clear - they told me there was nothing wrong and that I have a beautiful brain. Should I go back to the doctor and insist on a spine MRI? He told me that after examining me I did not show any clinical signs and he was ordering me the MRI to calm my worries. I feel like he will think I am crazy. Do you think a spine MRI could show lesions?

Answer:
It is very unlikely that the tingling in your jaw is related to MS and it is unfortunate that anyone mentioned this possibility to you without more support for this diagnosis. The diagnosis really depends on a number of factors that require a good history and examination not imaging. You just need to see a good general neurologist.

Revere (Rip) Kinkel MD
Director of the Multiple Sclerosis Program
Professor of Clinical Neurosciences
University of California San Diego

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