Seven? That doesn't sound too bad. How big are they?

As you can tell...I got a lot. What do you mean you could tell?

(Don't worry about the size or number.)
(strange...same thing I told DH! Ha!)

I have no idea how big they are. I know nothing. I am so fliipin confused.

Personally in a case like yours, as I did in my case also, I would absolutely seek a second opinion from a MS specialist before having a spinal tap unless you really feel there is a need for one. Unless I've missed something you do not need one to be diagnosed and there really isn't any other information that is to be gained by having it, imo

I have what is called "multiple lesions", sigh. The thing is that counting them isn't an exact science so I try not to get too bent out of shape over it. The count can vary depending on the shot and also who is counting. What I hope to see is that there doesn't appear to be a huge difference in numbers and hopefully none enhancing.

As for steroids, like Cherie pointed out, there are pros and cons. If I'm having a flare that I think will be helped by them and I haven't been taking them very often I prefer to use them in hopes of beating down the damage causing inflammation. Good luck to you. Sadly there are not sure fire answers to most of this stuff.

hi legz

i was dx'd with lesions without an LP.
i had one later as my neuro wanted it. and it just reconfirmed the dx.

the only thing i'm not feeling good vibes about is your dr's attitude.
some docs want LP's and some don't. but he seems to be blowing off your anxieties and concerns. for that reason after this is all over, you might want a 2nd opinion if you can find another dr, or MS specialist.

i'm also one that believes in starting on an MS approved med.
i believe that they help to stop progression and delay any disability.
they don't work for some people. and others just decide they don't want meds.
it's all ok. whatever you decide on.

and it's your body. you're your own best advocate.
i'd suggest that you take a friend or family member with you if possible.
for the support and a 2nd set of ears.

also, why don't you check in with your pcp. my dr is very responsive to my needs. your pcp might be willing to give you a mild anti-anxiety med, even for the short term.

best of luck. try to take a deep breath and take one day and one thing at a time. you're in the right place for advice (varied tho it might be) and support.

oh, ps...
it's not always the # of lesions that's important.
some folks have lots of lesions and few sx's. and some folks have a few lesions and many sx's.

so, try not to be too anxious about the #.
you might ask your dr if they're enhancing lesions. that would be you have active disease going on. that may be why he wants to give you the steroids.

Hi Legz

I can only really speak from my own experience. Although I have more than seven brain lesions symptomatic of MS, I could not be diagnosed with MS as my spinal tap was negative for O-bands. Henc exploration for other potential causes continues.

I'm surprised to see from a post above that sensory symptoms arise only from spinal lesions - I have a number of such symptoms (numbness, burning, the feeling of cold running water, tingling) without any evidence of spinal lesions.

Don't worry too much about the spinal tap. Although a little uncomfortable, provided you do what they say and remain lying down for as long as they say and then go home and straight to bed till the next day, you should avoid the blinding headache which can otherwise arise.

These will feel like bewildering times - but I'm sure you are in good hands.

Best of luck for tomorrow - let us know how it goes.

Merle

Good luck today, Leggzalot! Hope the testing gives them the answers needed to move forward.

Cherie