You will need an MRI to see lesions and a spinal tap as a final diagnosing tool...at least that was my experience. My diagnosis was reached quickly thank goodness. Started on an aggressive DMT immediately. Am on my third one now(Mavenclad) which will also be my last so hoping it does what it is supposed to do!
July 19
Getting a diagnosis can feel like a long and frustrating journey, but the symptoms being described — one-sided weakness, trunk pain, muscle tightness, spasticity, and nerve sensations — are all recognized symptoms associated with MS. The good news is that these are exactly the kinds of symptoms a neurologist is trained to Show Full Answer
Getting a diagnosis can feel like a long and frustrating journey, but the symptoms being described — one-sided weakness, trunk pain, muscle tightness, spasticity, and nerve sensations — are all recognized symptoms associated with MS. The good news is that these are exactly the kinds of symptoms a neurologist is trained to evaluate.
Here are some important steps to help move toward a diagnosis:
- See a neurologist — A general doctor can refer you to one. Neurologists specialize in conditions affecting the nervous system and are best equipped to investigate these symptoms.
- Request an MRI — This is one of the key tools used to detect MS-related lesions in the brain and spinal cord.
- Keep a symptom journal — Track when symptoms occur, how long they last, and how severe they are. This helps doctors see patterns.
- Be specific with your doctor — Mention that weakness is worse on one side, as one-sided weakness is a notable early sign worth investigating.
- Ask about a spinal fluid test (lumbar puncture) — This can sometimes help confirm a diagnosis alongside MRI results. It's also worth noting that symptoms like spasticity and nerve sensations (sometimes described as stinging or pins and needles) are very commonly reported by MyMSTeam members. One MyMSTeam member described spasticity as feeling "wrapped in 4-inch-wide adhesive tape," while others describe nerve sensations like bee stings on their trunk and legs.
Don't give up pushing for answers — persistence with your healthcare team really does matter. 💪
July 18
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