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DallyGal

Newly diagnosed

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DallyGal

Hi everyone

Very new to all of this but thought I'd reach out. I've just been diagnosed with RRMS a few weeks ago, and given the Covid situation everything (apart from MRIs!) has been over the phone. So it's all been a bit surreal.. 

I've had unexplained spells of dizziness and fatigue over the years, but the incident that has led to diagnosis was (I'm told) a pretty severe relapse which Drs initially thought was a stroke. I had awful dizziness and fatigue, and then lost strength, balance and coordination on my left side. Thankfully I'm feeling much better now but the last couple of months have been terrifying. I guess I just want to say hi and speak to others with similar experience- my husband has been very supportive but with the lockdown I'm feeling quite anxious about everything.

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Procrastinating
Stumbler

Hi @DallyGal  and welcome. I'm glad you found us.

 

The surreal nature of your story will resonate with a fair few of us. We all have similar stories leading up to diagnosis. Whether the diagnosis is expected or not, the diagnosis will still hit us like a lorry full of bricks. It may also come as a relief and as an explanation for all of those mystery medical issues in the past.

 

You now need to give yourself time to understand what this diagnosis means and how you are going to integrate MS into your life. Treat it as a marathon, not a sprint. Do your research, but avoid Dr Google. Stay with reputable websites like the MS Trust and MS Society. Also have a look at the Resources provided on this website, under the "Resources" tab at the top of this page.

 

Be aware that you are now embarking on an emotional rollercoaster ride, similar to a bereavement. These ups and downs can last a year or more, until you are "comfortable" with this diagnosis.

 

In normal circumstances, you would be introduced to your assigned MS Nurse, a specialist nurse who only deals with MS patients. They will answer all your post-diagnosis questions and discuss the way ahead regarding potential treatments. They should be your first port of call for all things MS.

 

It might be quiet here on this Forum at the moment, but there is always someone here to respond. So feel free to ask questions, join in with conversations or just to get something off your chest.

You're never alone.

 

:moonieman:

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John aka Stumbler (as I do fall over!)

Illegitimi non carborundum

 

"Life is not a journey to the grave with the intention of arriving safely in a pretty and well-preserved body, but rather to skid in broadside, thoroughly used up, totally worn out, and loudly proclaiming... "Wow! What a ride!"

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Rolley

Good to see you. Some of your story is like parts of mine

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Nick

Dally Girl,

Stumbler has said it all!  Be kind to yourself, take time and learn about just how your MS affects you.  There is a huge amount of support here, and while the forum is quiet, it does not mean its not useful. 

We have all been through this process of being diagnosed and know just how difficult this time can be, so you are not alone! 

 

Nick


Edited by Nick
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Just another Warrior...........

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DallyGal

Thank you all for your replies, this rollercoaster has left me feeling quite lonely (Lockdown hasn't helped!!) so i am very grateful for your kindness and company. I have been assigned an MS nurse but as with everything else, we have only spoken on the phone. Part of me is keen for lockdown to be over so that I can actually meet her face to face, but equally i think it will make everything even more "real"!

 

In the meantime I am trying to take each day as it comes (not something that comes naturally to me..)

 

:thanx:

 

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