Seeing doctor about MS for first time
Hello, new here. I'll be seeing my regular doctor soon to discuss some MS-like symptoms that have become pretty severe recently. I have suspected I might have MS for a long time, and have been keeping track of my different diagnoses and symptoms for years, but I haven't had a doctor make the connection yet.
I am wondering, since my doctor is most likely going to refer me to a neurologist, should I bother going over my years worth of symptoms with them, or just the latest ones that have me very concerned in the last couple weeks?
I was thinking about going to the ER, but I am a single parent and no one can watch my kids if I'm admitted, so I feel like I can't take that chance.
Just wondering if anyone might have any advice for me. Thank you.
Hi
. That is such a difficult position to be in. Even though you have decided against going to the ER for now, you might want to line up someone to care for your children should you ever be hospitalized. Anything can happen any time and it would be good to have a plan in place. Your primary care doctor will likely run a few tests to rule out health conditions that mimic MS before referring you to a neurologist. Your doctor will likely order an MRI as well. A neurologist will want to know about your current symptoms and your history, but it is a good idea to be a bit practical and keep in mind that your time in the exam room will be limited. I would definitely bring your written history with you, but you might also want to find a way to condense it for the first visit. For instance, instead of giving the doctor dates and descriptions for each time you felt numbness or tingling, you might say that you have experienced episodes of numbness and tingling x number of times over the past x years or just list the symptoms you have experienced over the years without getting into specifics. I hope that helps and that you get the referral. If things do get worse before you can see your doctor though, please do go to the ER. Your children might have to stay elsewhere if you get admitted, but at least you will be there for them when you get out. Keep us posted if you feel comfortable sharing. Wishing you the best. - Lori (Team Member)
