Diagnosis Process So Slow

[jen1977]

Going through diagnosis process has been difficult mentally and physically. Initial symptom that sent me to doctor was nasal speech, which is now slow slurred. Stroke ruled out.
Finally got to a neuromuscular specialist after 2 months. Weakness noted only in oral/facial region with tongue fasics. Suspected ALS verbally pending EMG. Requested clinical notes, which aren't yet posted in mychart. EMG is May 1. I feel like there's just such a shortage of doctors that everything takes forever. Ugh.
So many things going through my mind. I would say this part is super hard, but I can't imagine what comes next for me.
Im on cancellation list, and I call often.
Wish me luck.

Hope

 

[jen1977]

My EMG is tomorrow. I wonder if I should expect feedback on results in real time? It's being done by a neuromuscular specialist, but not the exact neuromuscular specialist I saw first. Any experience here?

Thanks,

Hope

 

[Nikki J]

It depends on the institution and the doctor. More often than not if it isn’t your attending neurologist they won’t tell you. Don’t try to read anything into their words either. They often have a standard line they give to everyone. Good luck

 

[ShiftKicker]

Hi Hope-

It really depends on the person administering the EMG. I've had feedback during and immediately after my EMG from a couple specialists, but I've also had to wait for the referring doctor to receive a report from others.

You can always ask, but do not be surprised if they don't provide any info right then. You can also ask when your doctor might receive the report and then make sure to contact them at that time to get further info.