Hi Connie,

I never had a LP, so I can't comment on what is normal or not. I just wanted to stop by and say I'm sorry you're having so much pain. Ick! That is one of the reasons I never pushed for the LP. I admire that you opted to have it done (if I remember correctly, it was more of a choice on your part, as the doc wasn't requiring it to confirm or rule out your dx). Two neuros told me it wasn't worth it for me because it was so clear that I had MS. Of course, every once in a while I think that I should have one - ya know, just in case it isn't MS! I know that a LP wouldn't rule out MS, though... So...no LP for now. I also think, gee, my doctor didn't test for Lyme or anything else! And then I read the MRI report and it's clear that I have MS, first and second opinion docs both said the same thing. But still! Isn't it possible that I just have a pinched nerve in my face somewhere?!

I hope you start to feel better soon.

Yes, vicodin is nice stuff...but sadly, it doesn't do squat for my headaches anymore. Moved up to something a little (lot!) more potent. Sigh. Would rather just figure out how to get rid of the HA without narcotics. Oh well.

But yes, here's to a better tomorrow.... (no, I won't sing, that would scare you!)

~Keri

I had the headache for 2-3 weeks* (didn't know about a blood patch) and the back pain stuck around for awhile too. Just keep pounding your pain killer of choice and stay down if you can.

*Getting up after just a couple of hours for some beer and chicken wings was probably not the smartest thing to do in retrospect!

hope you feel better soon!

No, not my choice. I would not have wanted it done My (general practicing) neuro wanted it to confirm my dx. Although in all the research I have done, I don't need it to confirm. She said if it were negative, we'd keep an eye on the MRIs before starting meds. Well, that isn't much good, cause in 8 years I onlyhave 4 lesions, so it could be another 2+ years before I get another lesion (prayerfully). That is why I am seeing a specialist. I really like my Neuro, but she isn't Trained in MS, and she sees a whole gamant of things. So, when I get conclusive answers from the specialist, I guess I will be teaching my neurologist... I plan to do follow up care with her I really like her!

Thanks for the well wishes. I feel much better today, but I am still laying around. I *HATE* it!!! LOL

Connie