hello Again,
I am a new member still trying to gather as much information as I can get. Does anyone have experience or diagnosis of MS in conjunction with TN?
My primary physician originally suggested ms, but the MRI showed no lesions. I did not have a very contrasting MRI done. The neurologist revisited the MS talk and wants to order another MRI in 6 weeks after the first course of meds has run through. This MRI will be more intensive.
I read online that not all MS patients have TN and not all TN patients get MS. But my symptoms are spot on with MS as well.
I am of course very worried about it but the stress of worrying does not help the TN at all. Ironically, I also have been diagnosed with Bipolar Disorder. My neurologist has suggested that this may not be accurate as many of the bipolar issue are symptomatic with TN and MS.
Thanks for any info or story sharing. Everything helps at this point
Hello Christine
I had many neurological symptoms that suggested MS about ten years ago. I had no lesions, and mine spinal tap results were negative. I was eventually diagnosed with a structural problem in my skull that caused pressure on my central nervous system that caused all the symptoms. It is called an Arnold Chiari Malformation, and it is often missed by neurologists unless they are experienced with it. I had it surgically treated, and all my symptoms resolved, but immediatley after surgery I developed what I now know is ATN. The pain was minor and intermittent at first but over the years it increased, until Dec 2011, when it became relentless, accompanied by the classic TN shocks. My current neurosurgeon believes there is a direct relationship between the two disorders.
May I ask if you are on any medications for your TN ? Often if you respond to Tegretol, that is a very clear indicator of TN.
Please feel free to ask me any questions! We are all hear to help
Christine
I was taking a steriod at first . To help shrink down the swollen blood vessel. I have been taking lamictal since march but just doubled the dose. Lamictal is an anti convulsant often used to treat bipolar but also for tn. I am still researching meds at this point.
I can tell you that a full dose of fiorecet (for pain) does absolutely nothing for me
There is a group here…go up to groups tab… And find the ms group there if you like to.
Kimberly
Hi, I was diagnosed with MS about 10 years ago but according to my neurologist my TN is not related to the MS. There are no MS lesions near my trigeminal nerve and the MS has been quiet for the last 5 years. My MS was diagnosed with a spinal tap and MRIs. So far my TN has only been diagnosed from the symptoms. It sounds like the more intensive MRI could rule out MS for you. Not sure but the Spinal Tap seems a typical way to detect MS as well. You might want to see what you doctor thinks about a spinal tap. Good luck. I know you are scared due to the uncertainty but MS for me (so far) has been OK. So generate as much peace of mind as you can. You will find a way through!