This Is MS Multiple Sclerosis Community: Knowledge & Support

Hi -

I've just started experiencing heaviness and burning in both legs. I'm assuming it has to do with my MS. I was dx'd 5 years ago after some visual and hearing problems. To date I haven't had any spinal lesions on my MRI - perhaps that is changing

Does anyone else have this symptom and if so how to they manage it? I'm going away on a very special vacation to Key West in two weeks and am just praying this is a fleeting symptom. I'm feeling very afraid for the first time in a few years with this illness.

Thanks for your advice/experiences

Mexigrl

First thing,
Relax and calm down, you'll just add stress to it and make it worse.
I have heavy legs also with some burning feeling from time to time. Baclfen seems to help. But you may have to expriment with dosage. I used to take 1 every 4 hours, now I take 1 every 6 hours. so I think I would a good setting. Try to keep you legs cool. It's hard, I have had MS since 1993, A lot of people will give you different advice. Remain calm, use the advice from the members here and come up with something the works for you. Enjoy you trip. Like I stated, Rellax, stay calm, stress will only make it worse.
ADJ

Mexi,

If you are having a new symptom like that that lasts for more than a few days, you are having an exacerbation of some degree. It is some sort of disease activity, and you should make an appointment with your neurologist. I would call and tell them that you are going on vacation to a warm humid climate and you need to be seen. He/she may want you to do a round of steroids, and you still have time before you leave. If you can't get in before your trip, you will have some peace of mind knowing that you have an appointment set up for when you get back.

Do you tolerate the heat? Just in case I would take along one of those personal fans that's attached to a spray bottle. They're geeky looking, but you're going to be in a beach area, so it won't seem strange. Target has them.

Try to give your legs a break when possible. You won't call attention to yourself if you sit down when you can (waiting for a table at a restaurant, etc.) and that will allow you to get your mind off of your legs and have a good time.

You are going to be fine! Have a great trip!