The real thing or "mental" case - Neuropathy Message Board

patches748 · 01-10-2002, 08:26 AM

I complained to the VA that I had a problem with burning feet which over next three years progressed to blurry vision and falling. They did nothing for three years and by the time they did something I had a low B12 level, an anbnormal visual evoked test, atrophy of an optic nerve, and a EMG which showed moderate to severe sensory/motor axonal neuropathy in lower legs. Since February of 1999, I have had B12 shots which I am suppose to get once a month.....the VA here tends to forget to reschedule me for the shots and second time in less then 9 months that they have done that. But since diagnosis in 1999, I have now atrophy in both optic nerves and vision is much more blurry again..fount on my 2001 eye exam...and now vision is worse. Also falling again and having muscle jerks during the daytime when I start to take a step or move my arm. I do not know about anyone else but it is rather hard to be dismissed by a doctor as a basket case or mental case. In my situation, I have been diagnosed with PTSD and depression but do not (and never will) believe that has anything to do with my medical problems. I guess what I am trying to say is that we cannot take no for an answer...if something is wrong with us, it is and we don't have the energy or the time to make up things to frustrate them!!! We have to continue forward so that we may have a quality of life also.

NancyH · 02-17-2002, 08:32 PM

You could learn to give yourself the b-12 injection, I do and have been for 7 yrs, easy and the thighs are a good place for it. I have pernicious anemia which has given me optic nerve atrophy and nerve damage,(lack of a early diagnosis)not to mention that low b12 can produce depression and if low long enough dementia, I was borderline and on my way crazy before a neuro caught it. So ask your Dr if he would write out a prescription for the cobalomin and syringes so you can do your own, save money that way also and you won't be missed for scheduling.

patches748 · 02-18-2002, 07:09 AM

Can you believe the medical at the VA has not done that in the past, even though I have requested to give myself shots.

But my brother was just licensed as a naturopath and has order me both needles and B12 for me to give myself shots.

thanks,

Lynda

WoodRunner · 02-18-2002, 07:09 PM

Hi Lynda... I agree with NancyH about the self delivery of your B-12. I'm treated by the VA in Washington DC. They added Pernicous Anemia to my list this past summer. At first, I had the VA nurse giving me the shots because I just couldn't get myself to stick that IM needle (loaded with vibrant red cobalomin) into my thigh. The first time I tried I sat there for more than 30 minutes saying ok... now! and still couldn't do it. So, a nurse helped me get past the fear and now I'm doing them on my own. One note Lynda, concerning them giving you enough of the B-12. The VA doesn't even keep track of the stuff. My nurse just reached in a drawer and handed me about four viles and fancy syringes that are spring loaded so the needle gets pulled back into the syringe when you're at the end of the stick. Now, onto the bigger issue. If the VA docs label you as a head case, then you'll need to start keeping complete notes on each interaction with anyone at the VA. Teach yourself how to journal--it'll help you in other ways also. Then, you might want to consider getting a DAV rep involved. They are a great organization and know many work-arounds to solve VA problems. Press on Lynda even when the storms come. Woodrunner hooker@skydiver.com