Do I ask for a MS Specialist?

[Moomba]

Hi, I am new to the board. I have been presenting with MS symptoms for 3 years. I do not have a dx. As of that time I did not have any lesions. The symptoms have gotton worse. I have not been back to Mayo in a couple of years. I have an appointment with my neuro next week. My general doctor stated that I should request to see a MS specialist in neurology, which my current doc is not. I like my neurologist fine, nice guy and I dont want to offend him. How do I ask to see a specialist without offending him?

[Toomnyhats]

Yes!

I would definitely get a 2nd opinion from a specialist. Most docs are accustomed to pts getting 2nd opinions & aren't offended.

[twisterred]

Toomnyhats is correct.

A professional neuro won't be offended.
Your health is most important.

[Shashi]

Have you been checked for Celiac disease or gluten intolerance? The symptoms mimic MS and can even cause bright spots (T2 hyperintense lesions) on MRIs, though not everyone has them. It is also an autoimmune disease, and there is theories that it's associated with lupus, rheumatoid arthritis, and perhaps even MS. If you haven't been checked for it, make sure you are. I've been having MS symptoms for five years and am just now undergoing testing for Celiac. And whether the results are positive or negative, I'm going on a gluten free diet, as many people have found that it can help their symptoms, even with MS.

Good luck in the diagnostic process.

Hugs,

Lisa

[Just a small town girl]

MS is very hard to diagnose. Your neurologist should not be offended in the least that you want to have an MS specialist take a look at your charts. Please do not let your concern for his feelings prevent you from requesting a specialist. Going to see one will help you to feel more comfortable with whatever news you get.