MS or Small Vessel Disease

New diagnosis and before diagnosis
1

Hi all

This is the 1st time I have posted on here I’ll try to keep it as short as possible. I’ve been having symptoms of dizziness since January 2016. This became noticeably worse February this year when I also began suffering foot drop. After yet another fall I went to see my GP in May who after taking a medical history and doing physical exam referred me for an urgent MRI. The results came back showing lesions (not sure how many) and querying demyelination and suggesting an urgent referral to a neurologist. I have seen 2 MS consultant specialists since then and had another MRI with contrast. The last consultant said he was not convinced I have MS and believes it may actually be Small Vessel Disease…Having never heard of this Ive looked it up and discovered its vascular dementia-eeeeeeeeek! I am only 42!!! My GP is still fairly sure we are dealing with MS, I am now booked in for a lumbar puncture 31st October. Basically I am wondering if anyone else has had a similar experience or has any advice? Im really worried at the moment :cry: would just be good to know what I’m dealing with.

Thank you

Rachel xxx

2

Hi Rachel

I think the consultant who suggested it could be small vessel disease is a bit irresponsible. It’s fair enough to suggest that he doesn’t necessarily think it’s MS, but leaving you in a panic like this is bloody unfair.

I can’t offer any direct experience, just sympathy and hope that the LP comes quickly. And is it right to say I hope it’s MS?

Obviously it’s better if it’s not either, but out of the two, MS is a better option!!

Sue

3

hi rachel

i want to second what sue has said.

meanwhile, you look after yourself.

good food, treats like a glass of wine, adequate rest as well as a good night’s sleep.

social contact is important so make sure you get some at least once a week.

don’t stress about the careless wording of the neuro.

carole x

4

Hi Sue Thanks for you’re reply. Yeah I think MS is probably the slightly lesser of the two evils. Xx

5

Hi Carole

Thanks for you’re reply, this forum is so supportive :slight_smile: xx