Possible MS - Opinion on symptoms welcomed..
In January 2013 I began having deep burning nerve pain on the top and inside of my thighs. Tight pants or cold wind would make the burning worse and especially at night or in the mornings. I have also had muscle twitching all over but mainly in my legs, and arms. Brain fog will come and go.
In 2013 I had clean MRIs, clean EMGs, but 3 positive ANA tests that were as high as 1:640. Although the ANA test was positive the tests for specific Autoimmune diseases have been negative. My vitamin D level was low but is back to normal and symptoms still persist.
I’ve lived with the nerve pain predominantly in my legs for the past 7 years, some days worse than others.
Fast forward to 2020, it seems like the nerve pain in my legs has gotten worse or I'm thinking about it more. Also have faint nerve pain on the back of my right shoulder. I have more trouble concentrating, feels like I’m seeing but not processing fast enough/concentrating and some cases of sensory overload. Also having a decent bit of fatigue. Haven’t been able to get any answers.
In 2020 I had MRI of my brain and C-spine on a 1.5T which was clear last week. EMG/NCV was also clear. Still worried that I could have MS as my thighs continue to burn and feel like my visual processing is slow. Hopeful that 2 clean MRIs, 1 in 2013 and 1 in 2020 make it unlikely..
Also, my neuro said my knee reflexes were "brisk" but not pathological/abnormal.
Anyone else have these symptoms or feel that they are indicative of MS? Haven't been able to get any answers and frustrated after 7 years. Is this "only a matter of time" before I get diagnosed or do you think my description is not indicative of MS. Scared and frustrated.
I hear your frustration and it's no wonder. Years of symptoms with no diagnosis. While your symptoms are consistent with multiple sclerosis, there are many other medical conditions that share them. We cannot give you medical advice or tell you what is causing your symptoms. But I can tell you that if no lesions show up in your brain and spine MRIs, it is unlikely you will receive an MS diagnosis.
You do not need a diagnosis to treat the burning pain in your legs. I take gabapentin for mine and there are other options as well. If you haven't already, discuss it with your doctor.
Have you been given Evoked Potentials Testing? The visual test involves watching a screen with a checkerboard pattern after they attach electrodes to your head. It measures the speed at which electrical signals travel along the optic nerves to the brain.
I hope you will get some answers and relief very soon. Thank you for sharing your experience with us, lots of readers will relate--and I hope some of them will respond as well. Best, Kim, moderator
