What Does “Newly Diagnosed” with Multiple Sclerosis Mean?
For many, being newly diagnosed finally gives a name to having some unexplained symptoms. Often before a diagnosis of multiple sclerosis (MS), a person might experience various symptoms, such as visual problems, numbness, or weakness, for example. Not knowing what is wrong and what might happen next can be both worrisome and frightening.
When individuals are newly diagnosed with MS, they may actually feel a sense of relief in knowing the reason behind the different symptoms. But coupled with this relief, many may also feel fear and anxiety over this new diagnosis and what the future may bring. From here, learning more about the disorder and its treatments will be of great help toward developing a positive plan for moving forward.
MSAA offers a collection of educational webinars and videos in the Multiple Sclerosis information (MSi) section of our website. These are easy to access by selecting the topics that are of interest to you. For individuals who are newly diagnosed, or who are experiencing initial symptoms and have yet to be diagnosed, several of these webinars and videos may provide helpful information for you.
If you are newly diagnosed, you may have never heard of the term “MS” before, and some people even confuse the name with other disorders. You may feel very alone, but you are not. It is estimated that nearly one million people in the United States have MS, as well as nearly three million people in the world. Many individuals with MS continue to work and are active in the community – some whom you may even know, but may be unaware of their diagnosis.
While finally getting a name for your symptoms may give you a sense of relief, you may also still feel frightened and confused. After all, MS can be quite unpredictable with its hallmark flare-ups and remissions. You may feel you have lost your compass, your perspective, and everything experienced now is under this new label of an “MS patient.”
But while you may have been diagnosed with MS, this does not change who you are. You still look the same, have the same family and friends, and have the same thoughts and dreams. When MS enters the picture, it usually requires some adjustments, but most people can still enjoy a full and productive life.