New member, need advice!

Hello all, I'm Monique, 38 and from the UK. First of all, I feel a bit of a fraud posting in this section as I don't have a definitive diagnosis but the questions are probably better posted here.

For years (at least 21) I have had a major problem with fatigue, but certainly over the last 3 years other symptoms have started showing, widespread pain, ibs, constantly needing the loo, dizziness, one end of the bowel movement spectrum to the other and various other complaints.

After repeated visits to the Doctor, I was diagnosed with Fibromyalgia in August of last year (literally a day after I first heard of it!) the symptoms fit, but I remember talking with a woman I used to work with who had been diagnosed with MS, but I thought even though some of the symptoms matched what I suffered with, that MS was not a illness I suffered from. Until now.

Last week, my left eye went a bit blurry on the Wednesday and by Saturday I could only see light, no vision whatsoever. After several appointments at the hospital (A&E, opthamology and Rheumatology) I was finally diagnosed with Optical Neuritis. My opthamologist asked if I had been tested for MS and I explained that even my diagnosis of Fibro was perfunctory (basically, the doc poked me in a few places and prescribed me Amitriptyline). He immediately arranged for a blood test and an MRI. It was only today, after a week and a half, that I was diagnosed and was told I would need to have IV steriods and that my initial MRI of just my eyes was now going to be my eyes and brain.

That's not until Saturday. I have another 4 days of worrying myself stupid about my job (sack me, please) my house and what happens next. The thing I am most worried about is the steroid IV and what to expect.

Sorry, I can wibble for Britain at the best of times, but I needed to get this off my chest. Any advice would be most greatfully received! (hugs)

hi Monique:you are in the right place. I am still trying to figure out what the heck is wrong with me too the doctor said the MRI looks like MS. The moderators here are very helpful and help everyone trying to figure out this maze. I am still going through tests as well. meanwhile read through this site. Someone with a lot more information will be along soon. I am new also but wanted to welcome you. They have a chat tonight US time look on the board.

Gretchen1 said...
Hey Monique,

Wow you have a lot going on!! You are not a fraud if what you want is a friendly ear and some kind advice. We can certainly offer you that. Optic Neuritis is frequently associated with MS but not always. The MRI will be able to tell you more so try to be patient. The IV solumedrol is a frequent strategy for both Optic Neuritis and for MS. You will be hooked up to an IV (some have to go to a hospital or health center, some get a home health nurse that will visit) and the infusion will take about an hour. You may get sort of a metallic taste in your mouth. You will get a decent boost of energyand you will probably have trouble falling asleep especially the first night. You will get horrible heartburn so get on something as quick as possible to treat that. Other than that, it is really not that bad. Just keep in contact with your doctor.

Let us know how it goes with the IV solumedrol and the MRI. We are here for any questions you may have. I hope your vision improves real soon.

Oooh, that'll be a first. I might actually get some housework done, LOL!

Thanks for all your help, much appreciated