The waiting game.

[tinearblues]

I am a 30 year old man, with two kids under the age of 3.
I have had non-specific neurological symptoms off and on for about 5 years, naturally been prescribed mostly antidepressants for it.
Currently in the middle of an especially bad episode. Tinnitus, coordination issues, vision problems, headaches.

In the place I live it takes a at least a month to get a GP, I went to see mine three times. Once because my daughter brought back a terrible cold from daycare and my WBC were really low. My GP is committed to a diagnosis of anxiety. Will not give me a referral to a neurologist. I have tried to get another GP, but it takes so much time. No one is taking patients. It's so disheartening....

The only thing that makes me optimistic is I have mild pain in my left ear where I have the tinnitus and a huge feeling of fullness... I feel like it's something which could be imaged?

I am tempted to go to the ER to see if I could get a CT scan or a referral there.
I am wondering if other people feel that might be a reasonable idea? Or just a waste of time? You don't need to worry about giving me your frank opinion.

I've read so many stories from other people who have also struggled with years of non-diagnosis. Usually great people trying to do the best for their families. My heart goes out to all of you.

[euphoniaa]

The only thing that makes me optimistic is I have mild pain in my left ear where I have the tinnitus and a huge feeling of fullness... I feel like it's something which could be imaged?

I am tempted to go to the ER to see if I could get a CT scan or a referral there.
I am wondering if other people feel that might be a reasonable idea? Or just a waste of time? You don't need to worry about giving me your frank opinion.

Hello, tinearblues, and welcome! I'm sorry about your struggle with doctors who seem to be dismissing your complaints. Where do you live that it's so difficult to get a GP? Are you in the U.S. or another country?

My main comment is that CT scans aren't used to spot MS lesions, and I doubt the ER would order a CT scan (full of dangerous radiation) for that sort of complaint. I don't know, though -- I'm not a doctor. If docs suspect MS, however, they usually order MRIs of the brain & C-spine, using a specific protocol, and usually with/without injecting a contrast medium to show active lesions.

Next, you might try to call an ear/nose/throat specialist about the tinnitus/fullness in your ear (you might just have an ear infection), or an ophthalmologist for the vision problems, since they can diagnose Optic Neuritis. I've never needed referrals to see those specialists on my own.

Another question: What are the other "non-specific neurological symptoms" that you've had? I was actually diagnosed with MS (& HNPP) quickly by a physiatrist (rehabilitation specialist), who then sent me to a neuro just to confirm and treat it. That might be a good choice for you, too, since they treat general neuro/muscular/skeletal issues and might come up with something curable or easier to treat than MS!

Good luck!

[tinearblues]

thanks for lending an ear. I live in a rust belt town (south bend). Its hard to get a PCP simply because not many Drs want to live here.

other issues are problems speaking. concentrating tingling in my hands and feet and sensation of skin crawling.

my thought with the ear was it might be a mass... but you're right. self diagnosis is a waste.

I agree I need to just try to find another Dr. who can help me approach this another way. sometimes I get a little frantic. thanks for the sober advice.