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   Diagnosis
   Types of MS
   Symptoms
   Causes

How is MS diagnosed?

This is a very brief outline of how MS is diagnosed and why it is sometimes very hard to diagnose. You will find much more information on the UK site.

Diagnosis

MS is a complex condition with many symptoms. Some symptoms are shared with other conditions. As a result it can be very hard to diagnose.

If you have neurological symptoms that can't be explained by another condition, your GP may consider MS. But if they are not too severe, your GP may take no action until you have a relapse (another period of symptoms).

You need to be referred to a neurologist for a diagnosis. They will carry out a neurological examination and a range of tests before they can say whether or not you have MS. You can read more about how MS is diagnosed on the UK site. 


Undiagnosed 

Sometimes the examination and tests do not give a definite diagnosis. This can be very frustrating, especially when you want to have a name for what is wrong with you.  'Limboland' can be a very hard place to be.

There is an MS Society Awareness Talk on diagnosis and limboland which you might find useful. It includes practical steps that you can take if you haven't yet got a diagnosis. You can watch it online.

 
 


 Neurologists
What do they do? (Info from the UK site)


 Appointment with a neurologist
How can I prepare (Info from the UK site)


 Newly diagnosed and 'limboland' discussion board
penpalsChat with others in your situation



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The Multiple Sclerosis Society of Great Britain and Northern Ireland is a charity registered in England and Wales (207495) and Scotland (SC016433)