Many Signs But No Diagnosis yet

[lightshines]

I have the tingling and burning in hands and feet, started about 10 years ago but is now in my entire arms and legs often.  Also, stabbing pains, chronic fatigue, bowel problems, electrical shocks throughout the body, numbness in all limbs, huge memory problems, and difficulty thinking clearly.  I have had a couple MRI's and am told that it looks normal for someone my age, 49.  I'm concerned about getting the spinal tap but must get it done.  Or shoud I do the scan of the spine first?  If it weren't for my faith I would be scared to death.

[lightshines]

Thanks for responding Lulu54.  The symptoms have been coming on slowly and gradually, just the last five years they are becoming unbearable.  I too thought "normal for my age" didn't not sound right.  How do they know what normal for ME is.  I'll be seeing a new neurologist soon, and will do what it takes to get to the bottom of this.

My year to stop searching,
Lightshines

[Lulu54]

Hi lightshines and welcome to our community here at MedHelp.  We have lots of wise and compassionate members who will be happy to keep you company and answer your questions.  

What does "normal for someone your age" mean?  Are there abnormalities that they are pushing aside because you are 49?

I hope you have copies of all your tests, cd's of your MRI images, and copies of the radiology reports.  You want to have those because you might consider changing to a different doctor.

Are you seeing a neurologist who specializes in MS?  You might now have MS, but you sure sound like something neurological is going on here.

There is little to fear about getting a spinal tap - the majority of people undergo them and have absolutely no complications.  Unfortunately the LP will not prove or disprove that you have MS, but can be used as supporting evidence.  

Ten years is a long time to wait for answers - I sure home that 2010 is your year to stop searching.

Welcome again.

be well,
Lulu