The Initial Symptoms of Multiple Sclerosis
By Samantha Payne Smith, as narrated to Keri Wiginton
When I got married in 2014, I didn’t expect to wake up with numb feet a few months later. Although I could always feel the floor after brushing my teeth, the sharp, nagging pain in my neck and shoulders became unbearable. At times, I couldn’t even turn my head properly, and my arm felt unusually heavy.
Assuming it was a muscular issue or migraines, I initially dismissed the persistent pain. However, even after receiving muscle relaxers and physical therapy, the discomfort persisted. It wasn’t until May 2021, at the age of 39, that I was diagnosed with relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis (RRMS).
Despite the challenges of pinpointing the cause, my doctor took my concerns seriously and performed various tests. After two years of enduring daily pain, an MRI revealed lesions on my brain and spinal cord. This discovery shed light on years of chronic urinary tract infections that had previously gone unnoticed.
Following the referral to a neurologist for confirmation, I experienced a range of emotions. Although his bedside manner was lacking, the thorough follow-up tests, including a full brain MRI and a spinal tap, led to a definitive diagnosis of RRMS.
Navigating the Healthcare System
Unfortunately, my experience with the initial neurologist was underwhelming. His impersonal approach to delivering the news left me feeling unheard and overlooked. Despite the challenging diagnosis, I knew I needed to find a healthcare provider who would communicate effectively and empathetically.