Hey everyone. Just wanted to let you know how my visit went. It went extremely well - we discussed things like for 2 hours of everything that has went on this year to me. The doctor told me that my last neuro didn't do a spinal tap and that is usually the one thing that can confirm MS. So Sept 16th, I'm having 2 MRIs done on my neck and back, and also a spinal tap done later that day.

She said that they were not going to diagnose me with MS, until the results come back from their own tests.

Just remember-after the spinal, lie down!! that means ALL DAY!!
And drink plenty of high caffeinated drinks-both prevent the awful headache and pain that can accompany a spinal.
I drank a couple of Monster drinks throughout the day, and only got up for bathroom breaks and meals. I had no aftereffects at all-and a negative result from the test...

Caffeine tablets (Wake-ups) along with at least two quarts of water before hand does the trick if you don't care for coffee. And yes, absolutely lay down; although some people only need to do that for a few hours. It all seems to depend on how it goes and how you feel it seems.

Also if you do get a nasty headache...and I mean a really nasty one (you'll know it isn't a usual type), go back in for a blood patch. It only takes a few minutes, isn't painful and gets rid of the headache straight away.

Good luck and I hope everything goes easily and well for you.

With love, Erika

So happy you have seen a specialist. I hope all your tests go well and you can get some answers to all those questions YOU have about YOUR MS. Great advice given on your spinal tap....be sure to follow it and the best of luck to you!

Good for you Luke.

Even though I was DXed after an LP/Mylogram, I'm one who doesn't
believe that an LP is necessary, unless the MRIs don't show MS or a
brain tumor may be a possibility.

Yes, after your LP, do lay flat, with no pillow for 24 hrs, if possible.
I found that, after, if a headache started, it would stop, almost
immediately, if I would, lay flat- no pillow, for 10 or 15 min.

Watch the caffeine, I can't take it, makes my heart go pitty pat.

my mri's confirmed my MS dx, however, after i was dx'd my dr wanted the LP and i did it. it was + for O-bands.

hope your tests go well. don't overdose on caffeine as it can affect your heart rate. but staying hydrated is important.

what did your brain mri show?