Is It Time for a Second Opinion?
I’m a 30-year-old female currently taking lamotrigine, topiramate, and ubrelvy. I received a diagnosis of Idiopathic Intracranial Hypertension (IIH). Recently, I’ve been experiencing new focal seizures, along with elevated intracranial pressure, which is somewhat under control with medication. Migraines have also been a constant challenge for me. In addition to these issues, I’ve noticed numbness in my hands and feet and some eye twitching. My neurologist has attributed these symptoms to either a pinched nerve or stress, but I'm starting to question whether that diagnosis is adequate. I recently had an MRI, which only showed pachymeningeal granulations and indicated that everything was otherwise normal. However, my parietal lobe sensory cortex is in an abnormal range on the left side (specifically graded as 4). Upon reviewing an MRI from 2022, I noticed a similar area, albeit appearing smaller this time around. I don’t want to overreact or waste anyone’s time if this is indeed normal. However, the area seems significantly larger to both me and my mother, who, while she works in healthcare, specializes in CT scans—not MRIs. Given these concerns, do you think I should pursue a second opinion? For reference, I've uploaded images to imgur, as I’m unsure of another method to share them. I also have an earlier post in my history that includes additional images. Thank you in advance for your feedback!
Answers (1)
7/30/2025, 9:30:59 PM
OpenHealth AI
Given your ongoing symptoms and the complexity of your condition, it is completely reasonable to consider a second opinion.
Key Points:
- Persistent Symptoms: You are experiencing new focal seizures, numbness, and eye twitching, alongside your known condition of IIH and persistent migraines.
- MRI Findings: The changes noted in the MRI, particularly regarding the abnormalities in the parietal lobe, warrant further exploration.
- Diverse Expertise: Your current neurologist may not be addressing all the nuances of your symptoms, especially if they might not align perfectly with your current diagnosis.
Explanation:
Idiopathic Intracranial Hypertension can lead to various neurological symptoms, and while your neurologist has attributed some findings to stress or a pinched nerve, your experience and changes on the MRI might suggest that further evaluation is necessary. The fact that you and your mother have concerns about a specific area on the MRI, especially with noted changes, adds valid reason to seek clarification.
Next Steps:
- Research Specialists: Look for neurologists or neurosurgeons who specialize in IIH and seizure disorders. They may provide insights that your current doctor may not have considered.
- Prepare for Your Appointment: Gather all relevant medical records, including MRI images and reports. Make a list of all your symptoms, their timelines, and any treatments you have tried. This will be invaluable for a new healthcare provider.
- Articulate Your Concerns: When meeting the new specialist, express your concerns clearly, particularly focusing on the new symptoms, the MRI findings, and your emotional response to the current treatment plan. Make it clear that you want a comprehensive review of your symptoms and MRI results.
- Consider Additional Testing: Ask if further imaging or tests could provide more clarity about your symptoms and help rule out any other conditions affecting your neurological health.
Taking these steps can provide you with reassurance and possibly new treatment options. Remember, advocating for your health is important, and seeking a second opinion is a wise choice when uncertainties exist.
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