Thought MS was a terrible diagnosis, but; now diagnosed with the JCV Virus.
In Jan. 2024 & one week before my birthday, I went for the standard MRIs for MS patients(first diagnosed with MS 2/201😎 the Dr. also ordered a JCV AB Reflex To Inhibition test, yes I was Positive forJCV( MRI and test results appointment is for next week) I'm now concerned, with how can I avoid things that can cause infection, do I need to always wear a face mask, avoid people & places ect. JCV is is terrifying me, I am allergic to a lot of antibiotics & had a near death experience at 16yrs. I've studied the JCV Virus by gathering information from valid government website, and no that if I get anything that can infect me that it's more likely to go across the brain barrier and cause death... Now I'm also concerned with life insurance what would I do in such a case do I need a end of Life plan, should I even consider if the worst happens do I say place me in a nursing home do I go and palliative care ect, now that I know this this is all getting so tiring...oh, the week before this diagnosis, I was diagnosed with stage 3 arthritis of both knees...yes, I have to go to physical therapy for evaluation surgery(if I desire...) that's it, I know things could be a lot worse, thanks for reading & I welcome any comments. 🙂
Hi,
.
I am sorry you are dealing with this new, scary diagnosis on top of MS. I know that isn't easy. I don't blame you for being anxious about what the future holds, especially since many antiobiotics used to treat infections won't be an option for you.
That said, it is possible to live well with JCV. I think prevention is a great way to go and I guess we all have practice at that, due to covid. It's pretty hard to avoid all illnesses, but you should be able to minimize your risk without feeling like you're living in a plastic bubble.
I think it's wise that you are thinking about planning ahead and if preparing for the future helps you feel more secure, then go for it. But, I think it's good to find a healthy balance between realistic and optimistic.
Has your doctor talked to you yet about regularly monitoring your JCV from here on out, because that should probably be on the agenda.
And, as far as arthritic knees go, I am sorry it is yet another thing to add to your list of health related issues you have to deal with. Physical therapy can work wonders and I hope it does for you. And, if surgery is the option you choose, I hope your recovery goes smoothly!
Keep us posted on all of this, if you feel comfortable doing so.
Best, Erin, MultipleSclerosis.net Team Member.
