Diagnosing Multiple Sclerosis isn’t as straightforward as diagnosing most conditions. While there are some accepted methods for diagnosis, there are no single fool-proof tests for MS. Even the acceptable methods can be inaccurate. It is estimated, in fact, that approximately 10% of people diagnosed with MS actually have some other condition. Some conditions that can mimic MS include lupus, multiple strokes, vitamin deficiencies, blood vessel inflammation and brain infection. Even stress-related conditions can mimic MS.
Because of the fact that MS is so difficult to diagnose and the fact that MS is a neurological condition, only a neurologist should diagnose Multiple Sclerosis. It is also best, if you think that you might have Multiple Sclerosis, that you visit a neurologist that specializes or is skilled in MS diagnosis. This can help reduce the chance of an inaccurate diagnosis.
Tests for Multiple Sclerosis
A series of tests will be performed to help the neurologist in determining if you have MS. You will also be asked several questions and be given a full evaluation to determine the source of your symptoms. Tests that may be administered include:
- MRI
- Spinal tap
- Lumbar punctures
- Blood samples
- Lab analysis
- Evoked potentials
Each test serves a purpose in helping a neurologist determine if you have MS, but you may not receive all tests listed.
Compiling the Data
Data from your tests results as well as your medical history will be examined by your neurologist to determine if it is possible that you have Multiple Sclerosis. Certain criteria must be met before your doctor can give a “positive” result for MS. These criteria include:
- Symptoms that start between the age of 20 and 50 (there are cases in which MS starts sooner or later but most cases occur within this time frame).
- Evidence of two or more lesions in your MRI.
- Two or more episodes that have lasted for at least 24 hours and have occurred at least one month apart.
- Evidence of disease of the brain or spinal cord (this can be determined through the spinal tap).
- Signs and symptoms that indicate potential disease of the brain or spinal cord (this criteria can be used when no spinal tap has been performed).
- Absence of any other explanation for your symptoms.
Receiving the Results
Results are difficult to accept, whether they are “positive” or “negative.” If your results are “negative,” you still have symptoms to deal with. Your doctor will still need to try and determine the source of your symptoms, but with the Multiple Sclerosis diagnosis ruled out, your doctor is one step closer to determining the source of your condition. On the other hand, if you receive a positive diagnosis, you have the knowledge and power to start coping with your illness. That doesn’t make dealing easier, however.
After an Multiple Sclerosis Diagnosis
Currently, there is no cure for MS but there are treatments that can help. If you are diagnosed with MS, your doctor will talk to you about potential treatment options. The severity of your condition, the type of MS you have as well as the progression of the disease will determine the type of treatment options that will work best for you.
During the treatment planning phase, it is important to talk to your doctor about your concerns and your desired goals for treatment. Being well-informed about your condition can help you cope. It can also help you and your doctor plan a treatment that will limit the pain you feel and it may even slow down the progression of your disease.
Finding Support
After being diagnosed with MS, it is important to find support. You can turn to family and friends but you should also look outside of your close-knit circle of people. Many physicians suggest joining a support group for MS sufferers. These groups have been proven to help sufferers cope with their condition as well as the emotions that often accompany an MS diagnosis. Additionally, you will be connected to others that understand what you are going through and they can share what has worked for them in the past and offer you more support.
Staying Optimistic After an MS Diagnosis
When diagnosed with a life-altering disease, like MS, it is easy to become depressed, angry or disheartened. These are all very normal emotions and you should expect to deal with them after your diagnosis. You should not, however, spend the rest of your life in these emotions. It is important to realize that, while you have been diagnosed with a serious disease, life does go on.
Many MS sufferers have found a new zeal for life because they are reminded that no one is given a set amount of time to live. We only have this very moment. Instead of focusing on your condition, live each moment for all that it is worth.