In 1996 I had a bout of dizziness and electrical zap type feelings - had a brain MRI done which I now know showed about 3 lesions consistent with demyelinating diseases (although at the time, the doctor just told me I had some normal white spots). Because of my age, it was considered nothing, and as the symptoms eventually went away, I forgot about it.
Fast forward many years, after experiencing numerous issues with pain, fatigue, recurring strange sensations, etc etc etc , I remembered that long ago MRI and the mention of white spots. Decided to see a neurologist with my symptom log, a copy of old MRI report in hand. She ordered MRIs of brain, cervical and thoracic spine. New MRI showed now 8 brain lesions, no lesions in spine. Lumbar puncture was ordered and although oligochlonal bands were found, because they were also present in my serum it was deemed inconclusive. According to her I didn't meet criteria for an MS diagnosis.
My question is: If I had an event in 1996 with my dizziness and initial MRI showing lesions, wouldn't any of my subsequent doctors visits over the years for a myriad of unexplained pain and issues (in addition to my daily chronic issues) be sufficient to meet the dissemination in both time and space of the McDonald Criteria? Time - 1996 3 lesions, 2022 8 lesions. Space - dizziness/electrical zap, arm pain and tingling, jerky movements, difficulty walking/balance, and other issues.
I feel like some people are diagnosed with less established evidence than I have.
What are your thoughts? Where do I go from here? I know something is wrong with me and I hate the not knowing.