Lumbar Puncture Results Anxiety
I just scheduled my lumbar puncture, I'm not really worried about the procedure, but more about the results. I don't like that I need someone to pick me up, it makes me feel so dependent and like I can't just take care of myself, but otherwise I'm not worried about the procedure.
What has me freaking out is the results, MS or more "We don't know" and both outcomes seem really bad to me. This is the last test that I'll be getting, and I honestly just don't know how much more not knowing I can take. Most of the things I've found about the lumbar puncture seem to be about the fear of the needle or the after-effects, but just hoping I'm not alone in the worrying about the results.
Hello @deftriver. You are exactly where I am two years ago, this very week. If you do have MS, that would be confirmed by the lumbar puncture. Along with the other tests including MRIs that you’ve probably had. Most people here will tell you that limboland is absolutely the worst. It’s a horrible stage, especially at this time of year too. Your profile doesn’t say how long you’ve been in the spotlight, or what your symptoms have been. Whether or not you have MS, I hope you find support with this site. We have all been through the symptoms, the testing, the waiting so do keep asking questions. Regarding the LP, it will be fine but you really do need to take care of yourself after, even if you feel fine. If you don’t rest and lay flat afterwards for a good few days, you can get a monster headache. I went straight back to work the day after because I felt fine, but that was a huge mistake. If you use the search box here there are lots of tips and advice from people who have experience. Please also cast aside your fears of feeling dependent. You are going through awful turmoil at the moment and need support. You don’t need to prove anything, you need to take care of yourself whilst you get through this time. It will all pass, whatever the result. At the moment, life is about taking one day at a time, you can’t do any more than that. But, rest lots, eat well, treat yourself lots, just until this period of time is over. Lots of love x
Hi @deftriver and welcome. Good advice from @Vixen above. All I can really add is that whatever your lumber puncture shows, it won't change anything. However, a definitive diagnosis will allow you to draw a line in the sand and allow you to move on.