Hello 👋new to group

Welcome and introductions
1

Hi I am new to group. I haven’t been formally diagnosed as having ms yet as I have to have further tests, additional mri scan as only had part mri scan so far which has indicated at least one significant lesion, I also have to have lumber puncture.
Probably no surprise but I have so many questions……
I get what I understand is spasticity which starts in my hands, spreads up my arms. It has only affected my legs when I have been in shower I no longer shower normally :roll_eyes: anymore. My eyes are fine no double vision. I was initially pure on duloxetine, but meds now changed to gabapentin.
So my questions, I was revered by GP to nhs neurologist but because been waiting so long for appointment I took decision to go private initially hence getting an initial potential diagnosis of ms subject to further tests, now been referred by to NHS as I just can’t afford to go private for further tests. How long could I be waiting for this if GP has done urgent referral? What is the probability if it is ms that because it affects my arms I may not be able to drive? Even though I have never had any episode as I call them when driving! If I feel a little off, I just don’t drive until I feel brighter if that makes sense. Being that I am aged 55, if this is ms I have read that getting it later in life could mean that the progression may be slower, is that true? Has anyone had lumber puncture and is it as bad as I fear?
Thanks in advance

2

The Barts guide is worth reading about LP, particularly the bit about getting the right needle.

Your Lumbar Puncture at The Royal London Hospital (clinicspeak.com)

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3

Thanks have read get your point regarding the needle will definitely ask this on the day! After you have rested for a hour can you drive yourself home?

4

Thank you will have a read

5

For me, the LP was no problem. But I did take it easy the day after. If possible I would ask somebody to drive you home though

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6

Thank you I did think I might not be able to drive home but thank you for confirming

7

Hopefully, the procedure goes well and you are fine, but it might not, so probably best to arrange for another driver.

8

I had a lumbar puncture carried out yesterday and honestly it’s ok, they use plenty of local anaesthetic so you only really feel a slight pressure. Best of luck and please try not to worry about it.