Neurology referral - Neurology Message Board

kiya · 06-20-2008, 01:02 PM

Hi everyone

I've just been referred to a neurologist. I'm not sure what happens next. I was last seen by a neuro-otologist, who ruled out balance disorders (and coincidentally decided he was also a psychologist and "diagnosed" depersonalisation disorder because I feel tired and spaced out with the dizziness I'm getting).

My GP said he'd like to leave things alone for a while to see if my symptoms settle down. He thought he would refer me to a neurologist in a few months if things didn't go away. But I asked for the referral today because it takes a couple of months to get an appointment and sure enough, I have one for mid-August.

Anyhow, wanted some input as to what a neurologist is going to be looking for. No one's mentioned MS specifically and I think most doctors feel that whatever's wrong is primarily a psychological problem. I'm not convinced and to be honest, I find the thought that my mind is responsible for all my symptoms very upsetting as if that were the case, surely I would be able to make them all go away...? I've been working, have a good job, enjoy my studying, have a reasonable social life (as far as the fatigue allows) and a boyfriend. I feel like I am getting on with my life in spite of the fatigue and that if it were really all in my mind it would have gone by now.

It's all so frustrating, but I'm hoping that the neurology appointment is a step in the right direction.

Nenu · 06-20-2008, 01:17 PM

Well, there's a couple things that may result from this appointment...

Neuro may do some evoked potentials testing (minor stuff, non invasive).

Neuro may order an MRI if they feel it is justified at this point. For example, if you've had episodes that point in the direction of neurological, without any other medical explanation, an MRI may be requested.

There's a lot of different things to consider where neurology is concerned. Blood work, family history, personal history, etc. It's hard to say what will result from your visit.

Ask questions! If you feel uncomfortable during the process, express your emotions about it.

Most of all, in the wait ahead of you, don't dwell on the 'what ifs'. Don't think too much about the visit, and it will come eventually.

I just kept telling myself, "not knowing is worse than knowing, and I can't change what may or may not be there already".

Canadian gal · 06-20-2008, 10:15 PM

Do you have two symptoms; fatigue and balance issues?

Cherie

kiya · 06-21-2008, 01:01 PM

Nenu - thanks, I'm prone to dwelling on "what ifs"... I think you're right, it's best not to! I think the problem is, I've never had a good experience with a consultant. They've always taken the depression or psychological route, even if I've taken in a member of my family to back my history up. I find going to see doctors an intimidating experience. I feel vulnerable and they never seem to help... ironically, I often leave the doctors feeling down!! When I try to struggle on without seeing a doctor, I might feel crappy in terms of physical wellbeing, but mentally I feel happy and fairly content.

Cherie - the fatigue and balance things are my two main issues. I have problems with pins and needles in my arms and hands (mainly on my left and mostly at night when it wakes me up), funny nerve sensations across the left side of my face and recently across part of my left arm. I also get weakness in my legs when I climb stairs. To be perfectly honest, I've learnt to deal with the fatigue, but the balance stuff is a different matter as it's affecting my ability to concentrate fully on my job.