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@rayrayjean 

Last reply

rayrayjean

Struggling with my new diagnosis.

I know that MS is super complicated to diagnose, but I am just struggling to accept the diagnosis. My first relapse was two years ago with optic neuritis. A few weeks ago was the first notice of two small brain lesions. I got the diagnosis of MS. I met with a specialist and he started doing tests and blood tests. I came back positive for ANA blood test. My doctor then said we could do a lumbar puncture to 100% confirm MS. Well, I did that yesterday and while I haven't heard directly from the doctor yet my protein levels were in the 20s. Not even close to high. Everything so far has come back normal (not sure if there are any outstanding results we are waiting on). But, I am pretty sure he thinks it is MS either way based on what he originally told me. Is there anything else it could be? It doesn't feel real unless I tell someone that I have been diagnosed. Then I start accepting the diagnosis.
3
@Stumbler
@Stumbler
 

@rayrayjean , there are a set of criteria (https://www.mstrust.org.uk/a-z/mcdonald-criteria) that need to be satisfied before a formal diagnosis is given. And then, acceptance will be an emotional rollercoaster for you over the next 12 months or so.

@Sarah_G_Bowley
@Sarah_G_Bowley
 

It is hard to accept I’m still accepting it and it’s been well over a year for me.. it’s not a death sentence these days though. There’s good medications and specialists to help you get through it.