I have to get a LP, and I am very scared. - Multiple Sclerosis Message Board

Missjay1977 · 06-26-2008, 07:03 AM

Hi. I've posted on here once or twice before. I'll make a long story short, weird neurological symptoms for a long time...tons of docs, dx'd with Fibro a couple months ago. My primary referred me to a new neuro (first one he sent me to told me I was crazy), because of this extremity weakness. He wanted me to have another emg. Anyway go to new neuro and he mentions nothing about emg, he wants me to have an lp. One of the evoked potentials from before came back with a slight delay but mri's were ok.

Anyway, I have to have the lp and I am scared. He mentioned a demyleation (sp?) syndrome and/or ms. I am so confused and scared right now. I told my mom and she said, oh, I thought you already decited what you had (referring to the fibro) and it made me feel so bad because she obviously thinks I am making this up in my head. I dont know if I should get the lp or just not get it and ignore whats going on. Maybe it is in my head. I dont know what to do.

I know headaches are a risk with lp, but could I die from it? I'm scared.

MSJayhawk · 06-26-2008, 07:16 AM

Your fears are just that-fears. There is a slight chance for headaches, but if you follow your doctor's advice, you should be fine. If this test could save your life, would you have it? 85% of MS patients can be diagnosed by spinal fluid.

I have had 2 of them, 1982 and 2002. Trust me, 2002 was leaps and bounds better than 1982. You will be fine. Ignore any naysayers because you have to do what is best for you. Ignore the "scary" stories about the LP. Focus on getting results. If you do have MS, focusing on the stress is not good at all (nor good for any person).

monique89 · 06-26-2008, 07:16 AM

Hi Missjay,

I do understand the fear that you must be going through right now. Your body is presenting all these new symptoms and you feel that you don't have any control over it and you don't know what it is. I experienced this feeling at 14 years of age when I was first diagnosed with MS.
If you are experiencing new symptoms, the important thing is not to ignore them and not to rule anything out.
In regards to the LP, try not to fear the worst. I will be honest, it is uncomfortable and painful, however it may be useful in finding out what may be happening to you.
It is also important that you trust the neurologist, and remeber that they are there to help you.

I know its much easier said than done but, try to take one step at a time and try not to fear the worst.

I hope all goes well for you

Good luck

Monique xxoo

MommaEMS · 06-26-2008, 12:15 PM

Hi Missjay!

I'm kind of a newbie around here but I also had a LP. It was nothing! I had it done in my Dr's office and the most uncomfortable thing was laying flat for 3 hours. I did not get a headache or any adverse feelings at all. It was a relief to get it overwith and move on with my dx.

I know you are afraid but that won't help you get through this. Take a deep breath and relax. My thoughts are with you and I'm sure it will be fine. Take care.

MommaEMS

Roadworker · 06-26-2008, 12:27 PM

MissJay

Just had my Spinal Tap done about a week are so ago, had it done it the doctors office, NO pain at all. Took all of 5-10 minutes had to lay there for 1/2 hour.
Had to stay in bed rest of day and plenty of fluids, Had no headache at all for 2 days then i did alittle too much and must have open the hole and Got head aches for about 5 days, but once i chilled out agian and rest for about 4 days all better.
Just take it easy for a few days later, on the 3rd day i cut a cut the lawn and thats when the headaches came.

Good Luck and don't worry..

Mike