Hmmm...think I found one of those things known as "complications from MS". About three weeks ago I noticed a red band around my left leg a couple inches above my ankle. The skin became red, warm and blistered with some drainage. It continued to move up my lower leg and also appeared on my right leg. When I finally called my gp, he wanted me to go to the ER right away but due to transportation problems and concern for my little dog here at home, I decided to wait the five days until my scheduled appointment.

The day of the appointment arrived and due to my legs, I was so weak and stiff, I couldn't get into the PT Cruiser that was taking me. So I ended up in the ER anyway because I needed the ambulance to get me there. Laid around there for three hours with nothing being done. Then they wanted to admit me to the hospital -- Friday -- weekend with no doctors around??? Forget it. Normally it's treated with IV antibiotics but the doctor eventually prescribed 300 mg capsules of clindamyacin (sp?). The script was extended for another ten days to make sure the infection is gone since it could lead to amputation, spread to other areas and even death if left untreated.

My legs are always so swollen due to immobility and the skin is really dry. They called it "bad skin" and said bacteria can actually enter the body through it. It's finally looking better with no redness or heat. Still have quite a few capsules to take -- they leave a horrible taste in my mouth. I guess this is something that can come back again so it sounds like one of those complications that's always mentioned.

To add insult to injury, Sunday evening while eating supper, part of my bridgework fell out. What next? Thankfully my DIL didn't have to work today and was able to take me to the dentist. Their mini-van is easier , sort of, to get into than a regular car, so my teeth are all back in tonight!!

Are we having fun yet? As I've said before.....I hate this disease!!!!!

Sounds like you're due for a reprieve. I'm glad you got the infection under control. Things like that can get worse so quickly. I don't blame you for not wanting to spend the weekend in the hospital. Hope things keep improving for you.

Sheesh, Judy, you poor thing. That's just awful. I'm so sorry that MS put you through another bummer time.

And then the teeth, egads, girl. It doesn't rain it pours. I'm glad you are healing now and I hope you will be feeling better soon.

I never knew that about the skin thing. Just another perk of MS, we all have to worry about. I hate this damdable dispicable disease too.

Sending my healing hugs and love to you..

that can be so painful.

That sounds terrible! I hope it gets better quickly so you can start feeling better soon.

I have wondered what cellulitis is. Sorry for the pain/irritation. But its good that you had it attended to. I didn't know clindamycin came in pill form. I use it topically for my acne. I hate adult acne or anything that irritates the skin.

This MS is trying to drive us crazy.

i'm not sure your leg infection has anything to do with MS.
DO NOT stop taking your antibx before the end of the course. the infection could come back or flare up and cause a worse infection than you originally had.

i'm surprised they didn't give you IV meds, at least to start.
please watch your legs carefully to make sure this is getting and staying under control.

also, i wonder if a dermatologist could help you keep your skin in better condition so you don't have dry and breaking down skin that could allow bacteria to enter.

also, it might be good for you to try and keep your legs elevated. that's better for edema, swelling and might help keep better circulation in your legs.

please let us know how you're doing.

Judy.....No, the cellulitis wasn't directly from the MS, but the swollen, immobile legs are. This makes it really difficult for me to reach down to put lotion/cream on my legs/feet. My friends have been doing it once a week for me and that even makes a noticeable improvement.

I'm still taking the antibiotics. They leave a horrible aftertaste! Yuck They're gigantic capsules so have to make sure they're aimed the right way to go down easier with lots of water.

Yes, I try to elevate them when possible. Thank you so much for your concern and ideas. The more I can learn about this whole mess, the better.