This Is MS Multiple Sclerosis Community: Knowledge & Support

I am new and very very confused. I just got diagnosed with MS by a neurologist a few weeks ago.

Just to give you a little back ground, seven years ago I had tingly feeling in my arms and feet and the electrical sensation when I bend my neck. It only lasted for few days and went away.

Then three months ago after exactly 7 years I started having all kind of sensory symptoms that include, numbness and tingling in extremities, sensation of wet/cold in toes (just for few hrs) and overall vibration sensation in most of my body (even after three months I still have these symptoms).

After several blood tests to rule everything else out, I was referred to a neurologist who immediately ordered an MRI of the Brain and the Spine. My brain MRI showed multiple small patchy foci (exact description from MRI) and none of them show any enhancement. Also there is still debate on the one item they saw on the spine since it is too small or not too definite (this wasn’t clear to me).

Anyhow, based on the MRI and the two episodes, I was diagnosed with MS. As for the clinical observation, the neurologist didn’t notice anything but a minor weakness on my left leg.

What is confusing to me is my back ground since MS is almost unheard of from where I came from. I was born and raised in east Africa right by the equator. I grew up running in hot weather and year round sunshine before moving to US at 23.


Yea, did I mention MS is almost unheard of in my family history or the location I was born and raised

So to say I am in denial and having a very hard time accepting this diagnosis is an understatement.

thank you for listening.

Welcome Temp. :-) I am glad you are here. Look around at the site and ask any questions you like. Feel free! I am so sorry that I did not welcome you earlier as I see your original message was a few days ago. Again -- welcome
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Hi Temp--welcome!

I would strongly suggest getting a second opinion, if you can.
Hang in there, and come back and let us know how things are going!