Hello all, I have my first Neuro appt tomorrow and wanted to know what to expect. I have a variety of symptoms mostly tingling and numbness and some vision issues along with extreme fatigue. My primary did an MRI of head, no contrast and it came back clear-he said most likely not MS then. What should I expect tomorrow test wise? Think Neuro will want there own MRI?? Thank you!
Read up on the revised McDonald Criteria. You will probably need another MRI. As for the initial appointment, the neuro will probably do some very basic coordination , reflex and other tests. Further appointments for testing will follow and may be determined based on the first visit. You should discuss your symptoms to date. You should not be anxious and should come away with answers as well, I hope, some hope! Stay strong.
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MS diagnosed since October 3, 1982
MS onset circa 1977
Proud to be MED FREE!
Eternally blessed and eternally optimistic!<><
a good neuro exam will include everything from reflex tests to a walking test. They will ask you to do the heel to toe walk and touch your finger to their finger, while they move it around (also reflexes). They will touch your feet and toes with something cold to see if it feels the same on both sides- they will ask you to follow their pen with your eyes...there are so many more "things' that they willl ask you to do, none of which are invasive - none of which hurt.
All this info helps the doctor to determine if in fact what you are dealing with is neurological and where to start.
Your doctor wasted your time and your insuarnce having you do a brain MRI without contrast.....more then likely that will be repeated. You will also probably need one of the spine as well as just as many people have spinal lesions as brain ones...if neither of those show anything, youre in the clear- for now. It can take lesions a very long time to show up. Or, they could actually be there and without the contrast, you willl never know it.
Other tests which might be suggested are spinal taps or lumbar punctures, EMGs or nerve conduction tests...EEGs and assorted other eye tests, visual tests to check for peripheral vision....again, none of these actually hurt. All of them help to rule out other things.
You should read up on the revised McDonald criteria because this is what a good doctor needs to do to dx MS.....and you should be familiar with it. Not all Neurologists are familiar with MS, so ask him or her, how many MS patients they have. If its less then 10, find a doctor with more MS experience...many of them are "migrane" or "Parkinsons" specialists and know very little about MS. You want one who is ultra familiar! Otherwise youll be in testing limbo for a very long time...
Good luck , dont stress. Its really important that you feel comfortable with this doctor, because if it is MS, he or she is going to be your best friend for years to come!
Nikki
Thank you for the reply, that was all very helpful information MSNik. This has been going on for about 2 and a half months now and I have read it can take a while for lesions to appear.
