Does a “symptom” occuring when you have MS mean the same thing as you experiencing an “exacerbation?”
I am new to M.S. (diagnosed March 07) and still learning more each day. This question seems VERY elementary and I apologize. I have messages into my Neuro, the MSSociety and have read dozens of books, which seem to delve much deeper than something as basic as this. I was diagnosed after an MRI following a drastic exarcebation that took me to the emergency room. After all that drama, and after being on Avonex since April, I am curious about something: this week I have been feeling a numb (lft side) and a bit fatigued. And of course these things are standard for MSers. But do the existence of these "symptoms" indicate new "exacerbations?" I ask this because, as an Avonex user, I am VERY, VERY enthusiastic about all the good press and results this med gets and I am watching VERY closely to make sure I do not progress – MANY others have similar success with Avonex. And I plan to be one. But…DO these symptoms mean the drug IS NOT WORKING?? This is my MAIN fear/concern right now. Anyone?
First off, let me say that it’s great you are becoming educated on your condition. You would be surprised how many don’t.
While I am not an expert on MS, perhaps I can help a bit. Being newly diagnosised and now educating yourself, you are going to find all kinds of things that you may have missed in the past. Besides your doc, the MS organizations are probably your best sources of info, especially the message boards and chat rooms with others who have the condition. They either are or have been there and can offer support and suggestions. Any and all your questions will be welcome there and I’m sure you will find wonderful friends.
http://www.msfacts.org/
As to your question….since you are newly diagnosis, it is best to report any new symptoms to your doctor. Various medications can be used to control different symptoms as they arise. You will become more familiar with your body, this condition, and the exacerbations, which hopefully will be few and far between for you.
I have a great place to send you!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Please check this place out. This is a nuerology forum with a real doctor who has MS who answers questions like yours. Just log on and sign up and ask for Quix.. It may take her a couple of days but she will answer you!!!