1. Visit a Neurologist for a Comprehensive Exam
If you're worried about unusual neurological symptoms, don't avoid the doctor. It is wise to make an appointment immediately if you experience numbness, tingling, blurred vision, balance problems or other nerve-related symptoms. If your physician suspects your symptoms are related to multiple sclerosis or another neurological diagnosis, she will send you to a specialist. Go over all symptoms with your neurologist, providing him with a thorough medical history. During your appointment, the doctor will conduct an array of symptom-based neurological tests to assess your cognitive function, reflexes, nerve function, balance and strength, as well as your sensory responses to pain, heat and cold. If you respond abnormally, he may wish to pursue further diagnostic tests.
2. Undergo a Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) Scan
An MRI scan is a procedure that uses magnetic fields and radio waves to capture sectional images of your brain and spinal cord. Patients must lie very still in a tube-shaped machine during the course of the test, but it is a completely painless experience. MRI results indicate whether you have inflamed nerve insulation--called myelin--and resulting scarring or lesions. These areas of inflammation and scarring are often indicative of the neurological "short circuiting" that causes symptoms in MS patients. If you are claustrophobic, ask your neurologist about the possibility of having an open MRI scan. This type of scanner does not confine patients to a tight, cylindrical space, reducing the chances of anxiety or discomfort.
3. Have a Lumbar Puncture Procedure
Since MS is difficult to diagnose and is often found by eliminating conditions with overlapping symptoms, your doctor will probably recommend a spinal tap. An experienced surgeon or anesthesiologist will insert a needle into the base of your spinal column to draw a sample of spinal fluid. During their analysis of the fluid, lab technicians will look for abnormal white cell counts or protein levels that indicate inflammation. While a lumbar puncture sounds quite serious, it is a routine procedure and does not last long. You'll be given a local anesthetic prior to the test, and should only feel mild discomfort as the needle is inserted. Remember, while these diagnostic tests can be alarming, they are helpful in ruling out infections and other conditions that could cause MS-like symptoms. It is important for your medical team to be thorough.
4. Have an Evoked Potential Test
An evoked potential test allows physicians to measure the speed of your nerve responses to stimuli. During the test, you'll wear electrodes on your scalp and receive a number of visual, audible and mild electrical stimuli. The time it takes for your brain to register and respond to the stimuli gives medical staff an idea of whether your central nervous system is functioning at a normal rate. This test does not hurt. Throughout the diagnosis process, try to remain calm and positive. There are a number of symptoms that mimic MS, and yours may be completely benign. In addition, there are many promising treatments for multiple sclerosis that help delay, and even prevent, troublesome symptoms.
