Patients Multiple sclerosis
New diagnosis for an apparent "old" condition
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Patients Multiple sclerosis
Penny1946
I am not currently on any medication but was first diagnosed in 1973/4 when there was no MRI scan available. I suffered periodically with spasms and numbness in arms and legs for the next 7 years being given ACTH injections! which is no longer used but from 1981 until March of this year was I fell in remission with only a weakness in my legs and mobility but which I put down to a problem back! In March I suffered what I now know to be a relapse and was admitted to hospital and given an eye examination by the Consultant Optician for sight difficulty ( which soon resolved) and an MRI scan and the Neurologist confirmed a lesion on my brain and a definite diagnosis at last. We discussed possible treatments and he felt that following the large infusion of methyl prednisolone and the unlikelihood of any other further treatments being effective I would be discharged and just see him periodically.
My mobilty has not improved and I always need the support of a walking stick when not in the supermarket. A supermarket trolley when shopping is I find the best support and makes me feel as though I am walking normally! In the home I use the furniture for support much of the time.
My greatest frustration is my decreased mobility and lack of confidence. I thankfully am still driving (I did of course have to inform the DVLA but got my licence back)and I have an automatic hybrid Honda Jazz. which helps. I can use the local buses of course but at least the car gives me a great deal of independence and I do have a private Home help for 2 hours a week and she is a wonderful person who can turn her hand to anything! Following my hospital discharge I did have two periods of short stay in residential homes but oh dear-as an ex social worker it makes me determined to remain in my own home for as long as possible!
Penny