Tuesday, May 4, 2010
EMG update
Well, that test pretty much sucked. I told the doctor that I hoped he got lots of useful information, because I'm never doing that test again unless margaritas are involved.
Electrified Porcupine
I am having an electromyogram this (EMG) morning. Until last week, I had never even heard of this test. Basically, the doctor will stick a bunch of needles into me and then send electricity into me through the needles. I'm such a baby when it comes to pain, and people I respect have said it was horrible. One person said it was okay and just a bit tingly. I'm really, really hoping that's the experience I have--but I'm not counting on it.
Since the beginning of March, I've been experiencing some numbness in my feet and lower legs--not all the time, but it's something I'd never experienced before. A few weeks ago, I realized that while I was shaving my legs, I couldn't even feel the razor. Also, I was experiencing occasional mild tremors in my left hand. So, early last week, I dragged myself to the doctor, convinced I must have multiple sclerosis.
The doctor was not particularly concerned about the hand tremor, since that happened after I had started a new medication with that as a side effect. She did some initial neurological screening, and I was relieved that she was pretty sure I didn't have a central nervous system disorder. Still, she referred me to a neurologist, and that's where I'm headed today.
I would have put off making the appointment indefinitely, but Thursday afternoon I began experiencing sudden and overwhelming weakness in my legs. And then I started feeling the numbness (is that even possible, to feel numbness?) up to my hips. Two days ago, I was scratching my right calf (I have to watch myself scratch, just to be sure I don't draw blood) and I discovered that I was feeling the sensation after all--in my ankle, of all places.
The hubster will have the car today for a job interview--which means that I not only can't drive myself, he won't be with me at all. Fortunately, his BFF is available and will be driving me and waiting for me. It's a good thing I like this BFF, because I may come out feeling fairly traumatized.