First MS consultant appointment tomorrow
Hi, I was diagnosed with MS from my MRI scan but I’m waiting for my first consultant appointment, which is tomorrow. My worst and main symptom has been dizziness, worsening since Oct last year. I’m a bit nervous about tomorrow’s appointment, not sure what to expect etc. I’d like to be diagnosed my MS ‘type’, be given something to remedy the dizzy and be put onto a treatment plan…hope is a hard thing to manage. Any positive feedback on what I can expect from my first appointment? Thank you x
Hi Vicky Im so sorry you feel like this. It can be especially hard at the start of the MS journey from being diagnosed, processing and starting treatment. From my own experience in my first MS appointment (well it was a second opinion which im so pleased i did!) i was diagnosed with MS and given my treatment options and to go away and come back and inform them of what i decided. I think just be prepared mentally and ask lots of questions. There are different categories of MS and most of the time you can be put into a category in that first appointment depending on yr past symptoms upto recent. But dont take my word for it as sometimes they like to monitor your symptoms before they put a stamp on it. Anyways - i do hope this reassures you. Its not nice not knowing Good luck x
Sure, I would expect that they talk about the different forms of MS, show you on your MRI screens where your lesions are, explain what symptoms are likely linked to each lesion location, run through a brief neurological exam (testing reflexes, eye movement, hand and leg strength, coordination), discuss MS treatment options and hopefully offer medication for your dizziness. I recommend jotting down your top 5-10 questions (because you know most doctors can only offer limited time); and possibly bring someone with you to listen and maybe take notes for you. Sometimes we hear things in a different way or leave and can’t recall what exactly was said. Best of luck with your appointment today. I also had a 2nd opinion, which ultimately lead me to a doctor who was much more thorough and patient. In short, you want a doctor who will offer you enough time for your questions and educate you about new developments.