Does a symptom journal help? - Multiple Sclerosis Message Board

Gyrlwriter · 01-14-2008, 09:27 PM

So I am seeing the neuro on Thursday...I had what they thought was a mini stroke, based on my ct scan and MRI, but they later started testing me for MS. I passed all but one of the reflex test (my arms did nothing as he beat them with his tool!) and I had a normal spinal tap. I had a VEP last week but haven't learned the results. The doc said she doesn't think I have MS.

I don't want MS!!! But this all started almost two weeks ago when my left leg went numb. That lasted for two days and then my left arm and side of my face when numb. I went to the ER and that's when they thought I stroked. I was admitted to the hospital and underwent many tests.

Since then, I've experienced: complete numbing in one or both both legs. Sunday, I didn't think I could stand. OR complete pain in in one or both legs. OR muscle cramping in one or both legs. Numbing in arms and hands. Major fatigue. Serious deep ear pain. Pain around rib cage. Muscle spasms in back.
Some constipation.

Does it help to report this stuff? I clearly know something is WRONG and I need answers cuz it is starting to make me crazy.

Anyone been here before? How did you handle it?

Rem4 · 01-14-2008, 10:26 PM

Sorry to hear you are experiencing these symptoms.
Sure you should mention all your symptoms to the doctor it might help with him/her to determent what you have.

Good luck

Natalie

glamour girl · 01-15-2008, 05:10 AM

Absolutely.. Keep a journal on your symptoms and problems. I used to get to the doctors and forget to mention some of mine..

If you don't have another appointment soon, get one if your still not well. And take that journal with you.

cyprian1 · 01-15-2008, 06:44 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by glamour girl

Absolutely.. Keep a journal on your symptoms and problems. I used to get to the doctors and forget to mention some of mine..

If you don't have another appointment soon, get one if your still not well. And take that journal with you.

ditto, ditto, ditto .. cyprian1

MSJayhawk · 01-15-2008, 10:18 AM

Ditto to all that was said already. Cognitive impairments and anxiety in meeting with your neurologist can cause us to forget our problems to date. Having them written down can assist in evaluating the initial diagnosis as well as measuring the progress of the disease as well as allowing us to ascertain our personal triggers.