MS....Do I have it???

Question

Okay. I have a few symptoms, and Im freaking out because I keep thinking that I have this. Im going to the doctor soon, but I have read lots of places that it is a long process to figure out if you have it or not, so I am just going to ask this now.

Here are my symptoms:

1. I feel shaky a lot. Like, when I am sitting down or something, I feel like a shake is going through my body. Sometimes I feel like I am shaking when I move my arms, walk, bend over, or do sit-ups. Also, usually if i rest my arm on the table with my wrist up, it will shake.

2. When I walk, I feel unsteady, like, I can walk in a straight line, but sometimes I just kind of go off to the side a bit.

3. Sometimes I feel dizzy too.

If you know anything, or have any info (other than WebMD), please share. Im 16, so naturally Im freaking out.

Answer 1

First of all do not think the worse... You may have a pinched nerve, or a virus or something very simple and common. Those symptoms you describe can be from a number of things. Since you asked about MS here some info.....MS is a long term, gradually debilitating diese of the central nervous system that usually strikes young people between 20-40 years old. It gradually destroys myelin (the substance that protects nerves) The exact cause isn't known it is believed that viral infections or the immune system's response to a virus plays a role in its cause. Symptoms include weakness, difficulty in walking, loss of bowl or bladder control, vision problems and speaking difficulties. Diagnosis is difficult . Usually a check of spinal fluid, an EEG and a CAT scan, maybe even a MRI. It is not curable, but physical therapy, muscle relaxers and cortisone can help as well as exercise and keeping active.