Hi all, I hope this message finds everyone well. I am new to the forum and have recently began my journey to diagnosis. It all started with random numbness in my arms and legs lasting up to 30 minutes at a time. Then transferred to numbness in my ring fingers and pinkies, plus my face. The pain began shortly after and I now find it difficult to open jars sometimes which can be very frustrating for someone as independent as myself. Even typing this message is difficult and causes me to feel frustrated. What are some things that work for people with pain? Also, how did you cope or what helped you when you were first diagnosed? Any information is greatly appreciated.
And it definitely isn't a pinched nerve or muscle injury? I would suggest acupuncture while you are trying to figure things out, it is so helpful for pain.
1 Heart
No, I have been going through extensive blood work. At first I thought it may be those options or something to do with me having sleep deprivation (I work nights). As I began to get worse and develop a facial rash, difficulty with grip, foggy brain, and some coordination issues I come to the conclusion that it was more severe. When I was tested for lupus and ANA, multiple results came back positive or high levels. At this point they aren't sure what autoimmune disease I have but that I definitely have one. This process has been nothing short of frustrating because some days are worse than others so you convince yourself you are fine. Outsiders cannot see your pain or really understand how you feel. People/ doctors want to diagnose you with multiple different things instead of looking at the symptoms as a whole. Thank you for the suggestion! I will look into acupuncture.
When I was first diagnosed, I went to the local book store (Barnes and Nobles) and bought every book I could find about MS. I had no idea what MS even was! You might call the MS Foundation and tell them you are "newly diagnosed". They, too, are helpful and can send you all kinds of information regarding MS f.o.c. Their telephone number is 1-800-532-7667.
1 Heart