Frustrated Awaiting a Diagnosis...

By littlebrowngal808

1 min read

I’m very frustrated waiting for a diagnosis. My doctor has not yet ordered an MRI either, and I’m wondering when it will happen.

For now it’s only “nerve damage,” but I have every symptom that points to MS. I don’t know what to do. My pcp is very smart and one of the best here in Hawaii. However he’s also my father’s close friend and his pcp as well.

I’ve been taking test after test since September, 2018. It’s definitely not the big “C,” thank goodness but I can’t help feeling helpless and depressed not knowingly and having a definite diagnosis. I don’t know what else to do. I want a second opinion but because I state healthcare I’m usure of what my opinions are. I guess I’ll call my health insurance company tomorrow and see. Till then I guess wish me luck?! Aloha!

This article represents the opinions, thoughts, and experiences of the author; none of this content has been paid for by any advertiser. The MultipleSclerosis.net team does not recommend or endorse any products or treatments discussed herein. Learn more about how we maintain editorial integrity here.

Join the conversation

Please read our rules before commenting.

Donna Steigleder Moderator
littlebrowngal808, good luck. Waiting for answers is always so difficult. It's good news that it's not the big C but I can understand your anxiety over not knowing what it is. <a href='https://multiplesclerosis.net/diagnosis' target='_blank'>https://multiplesclerosis.net/diagnosis/</a> I've attached the website for an article we have on making the diagnosis for MS and here is information on other conditions that have symptoms similar to MS that may need to be ruled out; <a href='https://multiplesclerosis.net/diagnosis/ruling-out-other-health-conditions' target='_blank'>https://multiplesclerosis.net/diagnosis/ruling-out-other-health-conditions/</a> I would suggest you talk to your doctor and ask if he could refer you to a neurologist since you at least have determined there is "nerve damage" and then in selecting a neurologist to seek one who specializes in MS. That allows you to respect your father's friendship with the PCP but seek the support of the MS specialist too.
candleglow Member
I went through a similar experience. My first MRI showed 48 lesions. A doctor said I had MS. A neurologist in Lincoln said probable MS. I went back home and because I felt sick, I went to a local neurologist who said my scars were not MS. They were simply white scars. This went on and on. Two years later I was given a definite diagnosis. I want to write an article on further frustrations. I feel for you. I hope you can get an answer. Many patients go through this awful uncertainty.
littlebrowngal808 Member
Thank you for your help. I really appreciate it. He’s ruled out Lupus. It runs in my family. My mother’s younger sister is unable to work and has been on disability since I was young. I’ve taken blood test after blood test. I had an echocardiogram/ultrasound of my heart. It’s strong and healthy from what the two cardiologist saw. No blockages. I am having extensive dental work done at this time but my symptoms started way before my dental work. I was diagnosed with ataxia 4 or 5 years ago. I have a history of past meth use. The MRI they did showed shrinkage of my brain due to this. I’ve been clean for over 15 years now. I had an anxiety attack last night in the shower. I felt claustrophobic and closed in. I’ve also been diagnosed with PTSD not simply depression & anxiety. Again I thank you for your comments and help. I’d rather receive a diagnosis sooner rather than later. I believe in being proactive to make my life more comfortable in the years to come. Aloha!