Did you take the MMPI or MMPI-2 tests? I agree with some of the other posters, try to find a good therapist who is knowledgeable about both Bi-Polar and MS(or neurological conditions). Sorry to hear that you lost your cool at work, however, they did interupt your smoke break to come in to a dead zone.

Oh, also want to add it's easy enough to lose your ability to concentrate when you are feeling like you are doing boring, mundane work. Maybe that plays a huge role in your irritability?? Customer service call centers aren't the easiest of jobs...

And also, I think it's great that you are seeking some outside help, where you are feeling like your emotions are getting the best of you.


ADDING: Do you think it's possible that your irritability is caused by some form of nicotine withdrawal? I mean this, if nicotine is such an addictive drug(albeit legal), then wouldn't it stand to reason that the irritability you suffer with is some form of withdrawal? I mean, it seems sooooo quick for you to get this Bi-Polar dx. Just a thought on my mind as I was reading through the NIMH link shared by Cherie.

I forgot to post the info I have on "emotional lability" (or Pseudobulbar affect (PBA)) that often occurs with MS:

http://www.mssociety.org.uk/doc_stor...d_Emotions.pdf

http://www.nationalmssociety.org/abo...ges/index.aspx

http://www.pbatrial.com/

My mom had schizophrenia (not MS tho'), and I've witnessed "mild" through to "severe" mental illness. I've also seen what the wrong chemicals can DO to a person, so I think it is very important you are properly evaluated!!

Bi-polar is more common in MS then the general population, but if I recall correctly, not THAT much more common. I think something like 1% of the general population has bi-polar, and 2% of people with MS have it. MANY of us have emotional lability though, and it manifests itself somewhat similar to bi-polar . . . the difference really is how "extreme" the behavior is.

Please get a proper evaluation before starting on a drug such as lithium.

Cherie

Thanks Cherie for these links! Very Informative

I like the idea of emotional lability as a means to explain a quick and sudden burst of anger over the idea that one is bi-polar---even if such a dx runs in the family. Also, I think in the States, so many dr's are a bit quick to jump on the Bi-polar bandwagon based on anger alone.

I'd like to think that in this day and age, one would could through a period of consultation before an official dx was handed out---even with those tests. As Cherie stated the wrong meds can wreak havoc with an individual....