Other things the Neuro suggested

I had a long session with my neurologist on Monday. Besides the usual list of symptoms and status I gave her, we talked about a couple of new drugs to try (as mentioned in my previous posting) given my current symptoms. I'll also be seeing someone about improving my gait, and given the narrowing in my lower spinal chord, she is going to refer me to a neurosurgeon to get his/her opinion. Between that, my gym exercises, swimming, biking, the AXON program at UNB and (newly started) Yoga, I'm keeping myself busy. Good thing I'm retired.

I tried Baclofen - Not for me

One of the things my neuro had me try was Baclofen for my spasticity. I took one half pill the night before last (you're supposed to start real slow, and yesterday was awful... I was dizzy and cog-fogged all day, tired but keyed up, even a bit nauseous for a while. Needless to say I am no longer on Baclofen. The next thing I try is Fampyra (for mobility). I can expect some side effects with that, but most of those go away after a couple of days so its worth sticking with it for the two weeks of the trial to see if it will help. Tomorrow I go to get fitted with a leg brace. I'm still going to try the Walk-Aide some more, but it needs to be re-calibrated and, in any case, there are places where the Walk-Aide just doesn't help.

Appointment with my Neuro

I had a good long session with my neurologist yesterday, and there were several new developments, some of which are in process now. As soon as things settle down, I'll let you know all about it.

MS causes CCSVI? Unlikely!

Here is a study that answers those who have stated that any correlation between MS and CCSVI may simply be because MS causes CCSVI: JRSM Short Notes.

Misdiagnosis of MS is costing health system millions

Given how poorly MS is understood, these misdiagnoses are not that surprising: Oregon Health and Science University Study.

Cerebrospinal Fluid Flow

Here is another take on possible MS causes and/or symptom relief from Wheelchair Kamikaze: http://www.wheelchairkamikaze.com/2012/08/a-first-hand-report-importance-of.html?showComment=1345742732609#c2913537310614440735

FDA and Health Canada Corruption ‘Rampant’, Whistleblowers Agree

Makes my blood boil: http://canadianawareness.org/2012/08/fda-and-health-canada-corruption-rampant-whistleblowers-agree/

New study challenges controversial multiple sclerosis treatment

Interesting... a meta-study soon to come out will say that there are no studies that have been appropriately undertaken that can attest to the efficacy or otherwise of CCSVI treatment for MS symptoms.... yet this neurologist KNOWS that this one study (which may or may not have been appropriately done) absolutely PROVES that the treatment is useless: http://www.theglobeandmail.com/life/health-and-fitness/health/new-study-challenges-controversial-multiple-sclerosis-treatment/article4490423/. What a scientist! And here I am, 27 months into my placebo effect... I think we should wait for some real, valid research before we pass judgement.

Immune cells not the bad guys in MS?

So, what if the medicines we were taking for MS were actually suppressing the immune cells that help protect us from MS: http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2012/08/120816122002.htm?

Back from Vacation

Wow, it's been over three weeks since I posted anything... our vacation at the cottage was GREAT and I'm still catching up on things at home.  It's good to be alive and, despite my deteriorating mobility, generally well enough to enjoy life.