Hi, i was diagnosed with MS in November, to date i have had a 3 day course of intravenous steroids which seemed to show an improvement (all be it slight but to me noticeable!), since then my condition has steadily declined and i have not been able to make it to work this week which i believe is the 1st step on a downward spiral.
I have my 1st appointment with my DR and physiotherapist on Monday, can anyone advise what/if any medication may be given? Just any general advice would be good, i have what seems like dozens of scenarios and thoughts going through my head at the moment regarding medication, chances of working again,driving…those are just a few!!
I’m trying not to get down but its easier said than done at times!
Thanks
Hi Tango
Hopefully the physio you see will specialise in neurological conditions, so will more of an understanding as to how MS affects us. But I’ve always found physio to be very helpful, spotting the areas to work on & tailoring exercises (often similar to Pilates ones) to build up core strength, balance & walking. They help you to get the best use out of the strength you have, and my walking always improves.
As to seeing your neuro, it’s possible they may talk about starting you on DMDs (disease modifying drugs) like Rebif or Avonex, which help reduce relapses. Generally I think people find them helpful, though you might not find the right one for you at first (in which case you can always swap to another one). If you have any specific symptoms like spasms, you can talk about medication that helps with that. But there’s every chance you’ll be able to work, evenif it means on reduced hours. I had a couple years off when I was pretty bad, but I’ve been back at work for a few years now without any problems. And I can still drive, just with an automatic and hand controls. Regarding driving though, you’re legally required to notify the DVLA that you have MS. They’ll send you a medical questionnaire which they’ll then sit on for several months, before probably giving you a 3 years licence which needs to be renewed every 3 years. You need to tell your insurance company too, though they can’t increase your premium as a result.
Good luck, hope it goes well & you get answers to help still your head! (It might be an idea to write some of your questions down before you go, as there’ll probably be things you’ll forget to ask about otherwise.)
Dan
Hi, Dan has given you lots of good advice.
I just wanted to advise you to take it slowly (mentally) if you can. November isnt a long time ago, since you learned that you have MS.
I know our minds can run headlong as to what may happen to us, or how we`ll end up.
But you know, even a life with MS can be a good and valuable life.
If work becomes too much as it is, maybe you could reduce your hours, or see if there is a vancancy which may suit you better.
Look after yourself.
luv Pollx
Hi Tango
Dan has pretty much covered everything but I just wanted to confirm what he said about not writing yourself off so soon. For many of us MS hits pretty hard at the outset with a big relapse that leaves us off work for a while, unable to drive etc.
Once I got over my first big relapse and started on DMDs I then had 3.5 years with absolutely no relapses and I was able to gradually build up my stamina so I could go for long walks again. I would never have believed that was possible if someone had told me I would be doing that when I was first diagnosed and I was struggling to walk across the road.
Good luck and take care
Tracey xx
Thanks to you all for the advice, i guess i’m still learning to adjust to things which will no doubt be on-going!! Patience is not really one of my strong points BUT i guess i’ll have to learn to be !!
I have a lotof questions to ask and will hopefully have sme of them answered on Monday.
I will now be a regular on the forum now i as it is helpful and informative!!
Hi Tango,
Sorry to hear you have MS but don’t write yourself off just yet! I’ve had it for 30 years (only diagnosed in 2003) but still work full time and drive with a caravan in tow. Yes you will have your ups and downs but try and be positive and listen to your body! There really is life after diagnosis.
Take care of yourself and I wish you all the very best.
Hugs. xx