LATE DIAGNOSIS IS IT WORTH IT?
Hi everyone I'm a 54 year old woman with most MS symptoms constantly and I'm already wheelchair bound. I'm gradually worsening rather than relapsing. What if any at my stage are the benefits of diagnosis? Thanks for reading.
Hi
. The benefits of a diagnosis could be huge for you if you do have MS and you have never been treated. You might be experiencing progressive symptoms that will not improve, but you might also be experiencing a relapse from which many people recover. Certain MS medication also might slow your progression or prevent further progression. Have you ever seen a neurologist or gotten a diagnosis? There are several other health conditions that mimic MS and might be treatable. Here is an article that lists them: https://multiplesclerosis.net/diagnosis/ruling-out-other-health-conditions. Here is another article about the diagnostic process for MS that might interest you: https://multiplesclerosis.net/diagnosis. Please talk to your doctor and get a full evaluation. Keep us posted if you feel comfortable doing so. Thinking of you. - Lori (Team Member) Thanks so much Lori I'll certainly read your links. I had half an MRI (!) due to a stay in hospital around 4 years ago. I found it unbearable and bottled out as I had no idea what it was for. Since then I badly broke my femur and was hospitalised with covid and given 24 hours to live! So I've only just got round to starting dx. Thanks so much for your reply 😊
Heartfelt congratulations on being such a strong survivor!
, I just want to echo everything Lori wrote. Diagnosis can definitely help if you want to try certain medications. A firm diagnosis can also help if you need to file for SSDI or other types or programs. Ultimately, the decision is yours, but there are benefits of seeking a diagnosis. Please keep us posted on how you are doing, if you feel comfortable doing so. Best, Erin, MultipleSclerosis.net Team Member. thanks Erin I'm in UK and it's a big struggle getting diagnosed, sometimes I wonder if it is worth it! I'm wheelchair bound and can see myself declining each day ATM. , I admire a lot of about UK healthcare model, but I know it has its drawbacks. I am sorry it's a challenge to get a timely diagnosis. Best, Erin, MultipleSclerosis.net Team Member.
Thanks again Erin as you can imagine I've spent hours looking into similar conditions with a fine tooth comb and MS is the only one l can't rule out. Today was the first time I have ever said "I'm undiagnosed but I know I have MS". I did not say it lightly.
, I am sure you don't say it lightly. I hope, if the time is right, you can pursue a official, medical diagnosis, if you would like to. Best, Erin, MultipleSclerosis.net Team Member.
