Hi,

I'm so very glad you folks are here!

I was diagnosed with CRPS after spraining my wrist last fall. I've since been on a search for a doctor who could help me. The pain and electric shocks have spread through my entire body. I've been experiencing weakness in my legs and hands (walking through the grocery store is a chore) ...and strange sensations in my face (including numbness, and electric shocks that extend into my left eye. Also, I have this horrible jaw pain that leaves me in tears and feels like someone is trying to pry my jaw off my face). Oh, and let's not forget the incredible headaches that render me useless! (The list goes on and on, and extends back to childhood -- but have intensified since my wrist injury).

I saw a rheumatologist today (highly recommended by some folks she's had success in treating). She doesn't believe I have CRPS...she said everything I've described (and my physical exam), are more consistent with MS then anything else. She took 5 vials of blood and is referring me on to a neuro. Of course, she was not able to give me a diagnoses of MS...and said that it can be quite a process to get a conclusive answer.

The internet can be a dangerous thing...I did some reading on MS earlier in the week. I had a feeling that it may actually be what I have. Still, I went to the doctor with an open mind, I told her my symptoms and didn't mention what I "think" it could be (it's her job to make the diagnoses, not mine).

Even though I was pretty sure she would lean towards MS. It was still quite a shock to actually hear it mentioned. I've been in this weird funk all day (some of which may just be all the blood they took). I'm trying to stay positive, keep a sense of humor, and not get too worked up over something that hasn't been determined.

I wonder if MS symptoms increase with stress. I know the CRPS can. All of my symptoms increases coincide not only with the wrist injury...but with the end of a 20 year relationship, adjusting to life as a single mother and some other major life events.

I just needed to share my experience. I appreciate you being here to give me a safe place to do that!

-S