Mom has MS, now I do...

[TigerEyes19]

What are the chances, right? After seeing all the effects that MS has had on my mom, I have cursed this disease for years...now the MonSter is attacking me. So NOT fair. I found out by a total fluke...
The first neurologist I saw was extremely hard to understand; he was Bolivian, with a thick accent. But there was no mistaking him when he told me I have MS. Due to the trouble I had understanding this neurologist, I asked my family doctor to refer me to someone else. Simply because I figure that if I will need to have a neurologist in my life, for the rest of my life, I might want to UNDERSTAND what he is saying!
I saw my new neurologist a month ago. He decided to start me on Copaxone. The nurse is meeting with me this evening & I will be receiving my very first shot. Not gonna lie here; I am a bit scared. Especially when I saw how MUCH medicine is in the syringe! I think I was expecting a smaller dose. But I'm a tough cookie, a survivor, so I know I will get through it. Always do. Come what may...

[coffeeandpie]

Sorry to hear. The shots become afterthoughts after a while. I use a little auto-eject device to do the shot. Don't actually see a thing. I do miss the once a week shots of Avonex though. But it wasn't right for my mind. Or maybe my mind just wasn't right. Either way, on Copaxone now. Sorry about the family trait. Same here. Weird coincidence, neither of us affected were breastfed. Probably a coincidence. But who knows with MS? I needed that nurse. I was freaked. I hate trying new drugs, always a panic. Hope yours went as well.

[want2bike]

You only need a neurologist if you take the drugs. Many do not take drugs for MS. There are studies showing the drugs are not effective. If you choose Copaxone here is what others have to say about the drugs. Take controll of your treatment. Diet is very effective.



http://www.nytimes.com/2012/07/18/healt ... .html?_r=3

http://www.askapatient.com/viewrating.a ... PerPage=60

http://www.overcomingmultiplesclerosis. ... gram/Diet/

[Ari]

Don't you find it strange that your mum has MS as well? I was just recently diagnosed with MS, which was a total shock since my sister also has it. If they say it's not genetic then what are the chances that we both have it?

[dlynn]

TigerEyes19,
I had a neuro for approx. 15 yrs. He never really helped me or could answer many questions. After 10 yrs. I started to have issues, he suggested DMDs. I tried them (for 5yrs.), they didn't help. Then I learned about CCSVI, my neuro wasn't interested so now, for the past 4yrs, I no longer see him. If I could go back 19yrs. (knowing what I know now about CCSVI), I never would have pursued an MS diagnosis, I would pursue a CCSVI dx. instead. I was very scared in the beginning, but the years went by without any symptoms. and I was able to accept the MS dx more easily. This is just what I think would have been best for me.
Ask lots of questions and do lots of research. Neuros don't have all the answers.
I hope this helps,
dlynn

[stillfighting]

Just a note here. It is best not to give up your neuro if you decide to go without the injections.
Some where down the road you may change your mind. Then you will have to start all over.
It is never wise to throw the baby out with bath water.
Usually a dr will require a once yr visit or 6 months if your not on meds.. it is much cheaper than starting all over.

[dlynn]

Thanks stillfighting, good advice and I agree with you.

[stillfighting]

Do not rush in on any med I have learned.. and don't be the first nor the last. Good luck with your choices.