MS and a new doctor

[Gail T AGAIN]

I went to see another dctor yesterday, I dont get it. betweeen the 2 doctors I seem to be pretty healthy but they are saying I have MS. As of this week I am not taking my Avonex and not getting an MRI. Life is a big risk and I am willing to take it. The doctor told me missing it once or twice doesnt hurt, I dont get it at all

 

[Nanajo1]

Gail,
MS is a disease that has a varied presentation. You may go years without a major flare. In fact be able to ignore the diagnosis. Studies show that the ABCR drugs delay and shorten relapses. I have been diagnosed for a long time and have had some major flares which I recover from but not 100%. My outlook is to aggressively treat. I did have a period of a couple of years that I just decided to stop medications but after a flare I decided that I owed it to myself and my family to make every effort to minimize and try to stablize this disease. It is hard when there is not a daily measure of the positive effect of the meds. I understand and respect your decision. I would suggest you exercise, avoid stress, eat healthy and try not to get overtired.
PD and All the best this holiday season.

 

[mamajoan]

Hi Gail,
Altho I personally do not have MS myself, I have treated many MS pts. I am in total agreement with Nanajo. To me MS is one wild ride. The degree of disability varies and varies ALOT. It is the most common denominator with MS pts.. that is the high frustration with the inconsistent degree of symptoms and abilities. Some pts do better than others when it comes to dealing with their exacerbation periods. I am glad that you have 2 docs that agree that you have MS. Getting a conclusive diagnosis is sometimes difficult. As far as your meds.. well that is up to you. Talk with other MS pts... sometimes it helps to hear that you are not alone.
Again I will agree with Nanajo advice for good diet, avoiding stress and trying not to get overtired. Exercise on your good days! It is so important to strengthen your muscles so that when the MS attacks you have more strength with which to work. MS is frustrating and frightening for pt and family. May I suggest you look for a MS support group in your community? These groups are often helpful in many ways.
I wish you the best!
Joan