What would you ask an MS Specialist...

Kemond · Getting to Know You... Joined: Jan 11, 2007 Posts: 20

The day is finally approaching when I will have an appointment with an actual MS Specialist. I have my Medical records, my MRI films, my log of symptoms, and meds. I have many questions (most of which you all have answered either to me directly or to others on the forum - thanks...), but what should I be asking her.

This will be the first time someone other than the neurologist who diagnosed me will see the MRI, are there specific questions about lesions I should be asking, I have quite a few lesions, and notice that they are referred to as different types on the forum.

Anything you would think would be important to ask I would appreciate knowing. I waited 4 months for this appointment and don't want to blow my chance.

Thanks.

Alicia · Family Member Joined: Jun 30, 2004 Posts: 49 Location: USA

Hello,

I would ask your MS specialist if he is open to letting to choose or at least letting you have input about what treatment you are put on, if you are put on any treatment at all. The first neurologist that I went to for my MS way back when there were only the ABC drugs to choose from was willing to let me choose which treatment I wanted to go on. Some doctors seem to favor one treatment over another or no treatment at all. If you are interested in it you could also ask your MS specialist about alternatitve therapies such as vitamin supplements, etc.

Alicia

carolsue · Posted: Thu Mar 22, 2007 4:56 pm Post subject:

I would ask:
is there any doubt in your mind that I have MS vs. some other demylenating condition?
how long would you guess I have had it?
without holding you to it, what would you guess my prognosis is?
how would you recommend that I assess if my drug therapy is working well enough or if I need to try something else?
what alternative or combination therapy options have your other patients had success with?
what's the most promising therapy (pharma or otherwise) that you see coming in the next 10 years?
are there any clinical trials that you think I should know about?

I try to pick my doctors' brains as much as I can. I think of a visit to the doctor as an information gathering expedition.

good luck!

carolsue · Posted: Thu Mar 22, 2007 5:10 pm Post subject:

I forgot one question that I'd ask, and depending on your age and gender you might ask too:
how might menopause affect my MS?

Kemond · Getting to Know You... Joined: Jan 11, 2007 Posts: 20

Thank you for all of your replies. These are things I haven't even thought about.....