Disease damage

[marti]

Regardless of progression or non progression... does the damage that has already been done continue or get worse as time goes on? Would that explain the ongoing symptoms and new symptoms? My neuro thinks I have kind of reached a place where things are "stable" as far as new lesions, but also says the damage has already been done.

[KoKo]

Regardless of progression or non progression... does the damage that has already been done continue or get worse as time goes on? Would that explain the ongoing symptoms and new symptoms? My neuro thinks I have kind of reached a place where things are "stable" as far as new lesions, but also says the damage has already been done.

Hi marti

Some of my neurological deficits have continued to worsen over time, while some have been stable for several years, and some have even improved.

And then there are the sneaky, nasty ones that come out from hiding when I'm sick with a virus/infection - and disappear after recovery, thank goodness. Hopefully they stay away and never progress further.

Not sure that I have helped with your questions. Hopefully you get more responses.

Take Care

[pennstater]

My MRIs are stable, but have had status quo and worsening of some symptoms. I have also had new symptoms. My EDSS score has remained fairly stable, but has changed the last 24 months, primarily balance issues.

Some due to existing lesions, sone probably due to lesions that may be too small to see with current technology. Likewise, some lesions could occur and disappear before annual MRI picks up. Neuroscience know the MRI can't explain the full picture.

I also know part of it is a catch-22. Not moving as much as harder now, but that then causes it's own issues.

[jamilea]

sone probably due to lesions that may be too small to see with current technology.

If the latest and greatest isn't used, does that mean there could be lesions that aren't being seen?

[marti]

If the latest and greatest isn't used, does that mean there could be lesions that aren't being seen?

I've always wondered why we don't have more frequent MRI's to keep up with changes.

[pennstater]

If the latest and greatest isn't used, does that mean there could be lesions that aren't being seen?

Even using the latest and greatest, there are lesions too small to detect. That is why neurologists are urged to treat the patient, not the MRI. The MRI is part of the puzzle, but not all.

[Mamabug]

If the latest and greatest isn't used, does that mean there could be lesions that aren't being seen?

MRI's are expensive, and, as others said, don't give the whole picture.

I had 7 MRI's during the first two years (2002 - 2003) to help diagnose me. But since then, my MS Specialist does one once every five years (2008, 2013) as one more way to look at progress.

[marti]

My MRIs are stable, but have had status quo and worsening of some symptoms. I have also had new symptoms. My EDSS score has remained fairly stable, but has changed the last 24 months, primarily balance issues.

Some due to existing lesions, sone probably due to lesions that may be too small to see with current technology. Likewise, some lesions could occur and disappear before annual MRI picks up. Neuroscience know the MRI can't explain the full picture.

I also know part of it is a catch-22. Not moving as much as harder now, but that then causes it's own issues.

I think you answered my question. Thanks. Damage can and does continue for some people. Right?

[Kimba22]

I think you answered my question. Thanks. Damage can and does continue for some people. Right?

Yes, Marti. My MRIs have remained stable for many years, but I continue to progress. I know axonal nerve endings can eventually fray to the point they are severed. Current technology just can't see the damage that really has been done, and continues to be done. MRIs are a window, but are not even close to a magnifying glass to what is happening inside our bodies. (For now, only an autopsy can provide more information)

[Mamabug]

I think you answered my question. Thanks. Damage can and does continue for some people. Right?

Yes; probably for most of us. MS is a progressive illness.

[jamilea]

I've always wondered why we don't have more frequent MRI's to keep up with changes.

Me too. I wish this forum had a "like" feature so we can let someone know we agree with them or whatever without actually saying it lol

[marti]

Me too. I wish this forum had a "like" feature so we can let someone know we agree with them or whatever without actually saying it lol

I've said that myself. I guess we could use the icons at the bottom. I'll try it for you. By the way... how's the new doctor going??