the Anxiety Surrounding Multiple Sclerosis: A Patient's Journey

Concerns about multiple sclerosis?

Doctor, a few months ago, I was worried about having Sjögren's syndrome due to dry mouth and dry throat, and I became increasingly anxious when I experienced pain in my fingers and toes.
This led me to consult a rheumatologist, who assured me that everything was fine.
However, I later discovered a condition called multiple sclerosis and began to worry about that.
I saw four different psychiatrists, and they all told me to relax and that I was fine.
The only tests I underwent were nerve conduction studies and electromyography on my right side (I forgot the exact name, but they inserted a needle).
One of the doctors mentioned that I might be experiencing hypochondria, which made me a bit upset.

I then thought that perhaps the previous immune tests were not comprehensive enough (like rheumatoid factor and antibodies related to Sjögren's syndrome; I remember having five vials of blood drawn), so I went to Chiayi Hospital for further immune testing.
The doctor was very thorough and asked me many questions.
Before the tests were done, he mentioned that it probably wasn't a serious issue, and even if some values were slightly elevated, it wouldn't be severe.
When the results came back, everything was normal, which gave me peace of mind for a day or two, and my finger and toe pain subsided.
However, after several visits to the hospital for kidney and diabetes checks, I returned to school last week and noticed that my hands and feet started hurting again (sharp pain in my fingertips lasting a few seconds, and occasionally a tight, painful sensation in my skin for a few seconds).
I also noticed that my limbs occasionally hurt for a few seconds, and the pain in my fingers can be quite intense.
Additionally, I feel some pain in my foot when doing a certain stretching exercise, but it's not throughout the entire leg; it feels like it's in the deeper muscles (I'm not sure if this is related to my condition).
When I invert my right foot and apply pressure, I experience a tingling sensation in a nerve or something similar (I've been walking six to seven kilometers every evening to alleviate my anxiety).

I'm starting to worry again and feel very frustrated, trapped in this vicious cycle.
On one hand, I want to clarify whether I have multiple sclerosis and if my symptoms indicate a more severe form that could lead to disability.
On the other hand, I want to let go of my fears and worries, which creates a conflict within me.
I’m unsure whether to see a doctor again; I've already visited over 30 times this year.
I understand that seeing a doctor might only exacerbate my concerns.

I would like to hear your opinion on this.
Thank you.
I asked a psychiatrist from Taiwan's e-hospital about my situation, and he suggested seeing a neurologist to assess my concerns.
If it's not serious, he advised me to live well and not to self-diagnose.
I am extremely scared, and I don't know if his response indicates that he thinks the possibility of me having a serious condition is high.
I went to the hospital immediately and mentioned the possibility of MS to the doctor, who said there was no need for further testing.
However, I am unsure if I should pursue additional tests to check for white matter lesions in my brain or anything else.

Dàxuéshēng, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2020/09/19

Dr. Huang Xiaoxian reply Psychiatry

Hello, the incidence of this disease is actually quite low, and your symptoms are not very typical, so there is no need to worry excessively.
However, the symptoms of anxiety disorders involve uncontrollable worry, which makes it difficult to change your thoughts through willpower.
I recommend that you seek an evaluation from a psychosomatic specialist for appropriate treatment.
Wishing you all the best.

Reply Date: 2020/09/19

More Info

Understanding the anxiety surrounding Multiple Sclerosis (MS) can be a complex and emotionally charged journey for many patients. Your experience reflects a common pattern among individuals who fear they may have MS or other serious conditions. The symptoms you describe, such as pain in your fingers and toes, skin tightness, and occasional numbness, can be distressing and lead to a cycle of anxiety and fear.

Multiple Sclerosis is a chronic autoimmune disease that affects the central nervous system, leading to a variety of neurological symptoms. These can include fatigue, difficulty walking, numbness or tingling in the limbs, vision problems, and muscle weakness. However, it is important to note that many of these symptoms can also be associated with other conditions, including anxiety disorders, fibromyalgia, or even stress-related issues.

Your journey of seeking medical advice from multiple specialists is understandable, especially when faced with persistent and unexplained symptoms. It's crucial to remember that while it is good to be proactive about your health, excessive worry can lead to heightened anxiety, which may exacerbate your physical symptoms. The cycle of fear and physical discomfort can create a feedback loop, where anxiety leads to physical symptoms, which in turn increases anxiety.

The reassurance you received from the rheumatologist and other specialists is significant. They indicated that your tests did not reveal any serious underlying conditions, which is a positive sign. It is essential to trust the medical professionals who have evaluated you and to consider their advice seriously. If they believe that further testing for MS is unnecessary, it may be beneficial to focus on managing your anxiety rather than pursuing additional tests that may not provide clarity.

Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) is one effective approach for managing anxiety. It can help you reframe your thoughts and reduce the fear associated with your symptoms. Additionally, mindfulness practices, such as meditation and deep-breathing exercises, can help ground you in the present moment and alleviate anxiety. Engaging in regular physical activity, as you mentioned with your walking routine, is also beneficial for both physical and mental health.

If you continue to experience significant anxiety about your health, it may be worthwhile to consult with a mental health professional who specializes in anxiety disorders. They can provide you with coping strategies and support to help you navigate your fears and improve your overall well-being.

In summary, while it is natural to worry about potential health issues, it is essential to balance that concern with the reassurance provided by your healthcare providers. Focus on managing your anxiety through therapy, mindfulness, and physical activity, and try to avoid the cycle of excessive worry. If your symptoms persist or worsen, consider discussing them again with a neurologist, but approach this with the understanding that many symptoms can be attributed to anxiety rather than a serious neurological condition.

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