Do any of you with RA have MS symptoms too? I am being referred to a Neurologist because I have numbness all the way up my arm and other symptoms as well. Could be, could be, could be. Who knows but I guess I have to go to do what I have to do. And I will go to the Neurologist on Wednesday. Susan Lee
The walking problem was OA in the knee. Then, they figured out that I had Restless legs and that I was taking too much of some B vitamin that one of my doctors had put me on.
I think any time there is numbness involved that they want to send you to the neurologist to rule more serious problems things out. While there is some chance a person can have MS while first having RA symptoms, I'm thinking that is more precautionary. I swear every time I have something a bit unusual, they are sending me to another specialist to make sure it's not something more serious.
Fortunately, an exam by a neurologist is pretty painless. You may even get a brain MRI, which is no big deal at all. That's where MS would really show up if it was occurring. If everything is clear, just add the films to your collection. At least I can prove I have a brain, which is more than a lot of people can say.
I know you are worried. But numbness can be from a lot of causes other than MS. But keep us posted on what you learn. My heart is with you. Tests can be such a nuisance. I go crazy with worry about them.
I know we have one active member here that has both....I can't for the life of me remember who it is now. (Sorry...I know we've talked several times)
Chances are good; like Deanna said, it's just a precaution. I know the though of it is scary to say the least. Keep us updated on what they do and say. We're here for ya.
Just one more thing, isn't it? Every day, it's one more thing. One more test. One more worry. RA never rests. Hope all of your tests come back clean.I too have had the numbness and was sent to a neurologist. He did several MRI's, a nerve study and blood work to rule out MS and told me it must be something with the RA causing it. Which doesn't tell me much. Good luck on your visit with the doctor. Sandy