Trying to Decide About Spinal Tap

[Guest guest]

Hi, everyone. I am new here and have been reading the archives, and

have to say I am so inspired by all the knowledge you all share.

My neurologist is trying to determine if I have MS and I am scheduled

for a spinal tap. I have heard of people having unpleasant side

effects after spinal taps, so I'm trying to be sure that taking that

step makes the most sense for me.

I had a brain MRI with contrast that showed one small white mark

which my neurologist said could be indicative of MS or could be

nothing at all. I had a bunch of labs done, all negative, and also a

negative nerve conduction study.

My main symptoms are tingling in my hands and feet, worse on the

right, and I've had this for months. At times it disappears, or

varies in intensity. The more concerning symptom is this altered

sensation that I have on much of my body. It's hard to describe.

It's sort of like a slight buzzing sensation. If something brushes

against my skin, it just feels odd.

I have buzzing or ringing in the ears, and also recently I'm getting

sort of like floaters in my vision, but they don't move, kind of like

little pieces of fuzz.

None of these symptoms are debilitating. I don't have fatigue or

symptoms getting worse in the heat, although I don't know if those

are present in every case of MS.

I'm thinking an alternative to the spinal tap would be following some

of the alternative practices that many of you are pursuing and see if

I can get a reduction in my symptoms. I have started this week with

changing my diet.

However, at times I think maybe it makes sense to get the spinal tap,

which might give me more info on what I'm dealing with. Have any of

you had spinal taps and what was your experience?

I know no one can make this decision for me, but I'd love to hear if

you have any thoughts on this. Thanks for taking the time to read

this!

Barb