Good morning, @lgarrington, This has to be weighing heavily on your mind, for sure. A diagnosis involving the nervous system can take time, especially with MS. It’s more often a diagnosis by exclusion of ‘what it’s not’ because there are a number of other conditions which can mimic MS. So try not to let your mind drift into a negative area.

Did you have a lumbar puncture? It will show abnormalities in antibodies that are associated with MS. A spinal tap can also help rule out infections and other conditions with symptoms similar to MS.
Have you had an MRI previously? Your doctors will want to do a thorough exam, so I’m suspecting your MRI will be of the brain and spinal cord. I’ve had four of these over the past 2 years. From my experience, this scan may take 2.5 - 3 hours. It’s painless but trying to lie still for that length of time is a little challenging…plus I’m claustrophobic. Wiggling and fidgeting is not an option during the MRI.

My doctor was a sweetie and ordered Lorazepam for me. It worked like magic. I take .5mg starting 1.5 hour before, then another 1.0 mg a half hour later. So, 1.5mg in total, with the last dose about 1/2 hour before the MRI. Keeps me relaxed, no claustrophobia at all, but still awake for the entire process. Depending where you have this done, some units have music you can select. I would suggest asking for a mild relaxant before the MRI just to give you an easier time.

I hope you find some answers soon because, I know, the waiting and wondering just sap your strength. Will you please let me know what you find out?