Seeking Assistance with DMSO-Related Issues
Greetings, everyone. (I am a 34-year-old male, standing at 1.86 meters tall and weighing 70 kilograms.) Since February 2024, I have been enduring what seems to be a partial, yet irreversible impairment, which I suspect—though I can't confirm—might have resulted from my use of DMSO while walking barefoot in a vineyard. Is there anyone here who can offer guidance on how to move forward after dealing with this for such an extended period? I've visited the hospital on two occasions, where the medical staff attributed my symptoms to possible drug use; however, all relevant tests returned negative since I do not consume any drugs. Presently, I have only received an ambiguous diagnosis suggesting multiple sclerosis. I appreciate any assistance you can provide.
Answers (1)

8/18/2025, 3:41:45 PM
OpenHealth AI
I'm sorry to hear about the challenges you've been facing. It sounds like you're dealing with complex symptoms that are deeply affecting your life. Here’s a structured response to help guide you forward.
Main Points:
- Your symptoms may be related to the DMSO use, but a clear diagnosis is crucial.
- Understanding your condition and managing your symptoms can help improve your quality of life.
- Actionable next steps include self-monitoring and lifestyle adjustments, as well as exploring support options.
Explanation:
DMSO (dimethyl sulfoxide) is often used for its anti-inflammatory properties but can cause side effects or reactions, especially if absorbed through the skin. Your suspicion of it being related to your symptoms is not uncommon; however, without a formal diagnosis, it’s challenging to pinpoint the exact cause.
Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a neurological condition that can cause various symptoms, including fatigue, mobility issues, and numbness. If you've received an ambiguous diagnosis, it's crucial to seek clarification on your symptoms and their management.
Prioritized Next Steps:
-
Symptom Monitoring: Keep a detailed diary of your symptoms. Note when they occur, intensity, and any factors that may influence them (such as activity, diet, or stress levels). This information can be valuable for healthcare providers.
-
Nutrition and Hydration: Maintain a balanced diet rich in antioxidants and stay well-hydrated. Foods such as fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and healthy fats can support overall health.
-
Physical Activity: Gentle, non-strenuous exercise can help maintain mobility and reduce stress. Consider activities like walking, swimming, or yoga, which may also aid in relaxation.
-
Mental Health Support: Chronic conditions can take a toll on mental health. Engage in stress-relief practices such as mindfulness, meditation, or simply talking to friends or family about your experiences.
-
Seek Specialist Input: If you haven’t already, request a referral to a neurologist who specializes in MS or similar conditions for a more thorough evaluation. Having a formal diagnosis can guide your treatment and management strategies.
Please take care, and remember that it's okay to seek help from professionals who can provide the support you’re looking for in dealing with your symptoms. You're not alone in this journey, and there are paths to improve your situation. Let me know if you have any other questions or need more information!
Related Questions
Could It Be a Decidual Cast or Something Else?
Yesterday, while out shopping with my husband, I mentioned that I needed to visit the restroom. Once there, after taking care of necessary business, I noticed something upon wiping that caught my attention. Here are a few observations I'd like to share: - I experienced no cramping at all. - My menstrual cycles usually arrive after the 25th of each month, although I realize they can come earlier; I felt it was worth mentioning. - I'm currently using a copper IUD for contraception. - I felt completely at ease with what I passed. - Throughout the past week, I have taken several pregnancy tests; some indicated a faint positive line, while others were negative, leaving me uncertain. - As of today, I have not experienced any bleeding, heavy periods, or cramping—nothing at all. I haven’t visited a healthcare professional due to a lack of insurance, but I’m open to seeking one out. Could this possibly be a decidual cast, or does shedding only occur during menstruation? Alternatively, might I be mistaken about what happened? Any insights would be appreciated!
Should I Perform Regular Breast Checks?
Hello, I’m a 19-year-old, and during my recent physical examination, my doctor performed a breast check, a procedure she has carried out for the last two or three years. However, she has never mentioned that I should be doing self-examinations. I am keen on maintaining my health, so I did some research and found that many sources suggest that regular breast self-exams are not necessary until the age of 25. I’m unsure if I should begin self-checking now, or if I might need to find a new doctor who adheres more closely to established guidelines. My reason for raising this concern stems from my health anxiety. If self-examinations aren’t essential at this age, it would certainly help alleviate my worries. Nevertheless, I am puzzled as to why my doctor checks my breasts if there’s no immediate need for me to be doing so myself.
Understanding My Diagnosis of Unspecified Neurocognitive Disorder: What Comes Next?
At 31 years old, I’ve recently been diagnosed with an unspecified neurocognitive disorder. I’ve obtained my report through the state, but I haven’t yet had the opportunity to discuss it in detail with the physician who conducted my assessment. Navigating next steps is my current focus, as I’m eager to gain clarity on what this diagnosis entails and how I can effectively manage it moving forward.
Navigating Conversations with a Loved One Experiencing Schizophrenia
My sister, who is 25 years old, has been diagnosed with schizophrenia. Occasionally, she communicates beliefs that are clearly fictional, such as her current claim that she possesses the ability to resurrect people who have died. I find myself puzzled by the guidance provided by her healthcare professional. Although I can’t recall his advice in detail, he suggested that we shouldn’t outright dismiss her beliefs, yet at the same time, we shouldn’t agree with them either. This seems to create a contradiction—how can one practice both approaches simultaneously? When she discusses these notions, is it more beneficial for us to compassionately engage with her ideas to offer her reassurance, or should we refrain from validating her claims? Each time we confront her assertions as false, it leads to significant frustration and emotional upheaval for her, leaving us uncertain about the best course of action. Currently, she is on risperidone, although her psychiatrist has mentioned the possibility of exploring other medications if this treatment doesn’t yield results. In the meantime, I find myself in a state of confusion about how to proceed with our interactions.
Unusual Paroxysmal Reaction to Cannabis After Years of Regular Use
At 35 years old, I am a female diagnosed with autism, ADHD, persistent migraines, and generalized anxiety disorder. Although I contest the relevance of the latter as it has primarily served as a coping mechanism for my ADHD, I mention it here for thoroughness. Additionally, while I’m not formally diagnosed with hypertension, I have been collaborating with my primary care physician on a longstanding trend of normal systolic and elevated diastolic blood pressure—my latest home reading was 110 over 93 mmHg. My daily medications include: - Hydrochlorothiazide 12.5 mg - Adderall 10 mg as needed (which averages about once a week) - Klonopin 0.5 mg as needed (even less frequently, about once a month) Additionally, I take the following supplements: - Vitamin D-3 5000 IU - L-methylfolate 1 mg (due to being homozygous for a specific MTHFR mutation that does not affect homocysteine levels) - Riboflavin 400 mg - CoQ10 100 mg - Magnesium glycinate 270 mg - N-acetyl cysteine 1200 mg - Fish oil 1200 mg Socially, I consume alcohol sporadically, usually limiting myself to around two beers once or twice weekly. Regarding my neurological background, I have endured chronic migraines and visual snow syndrome my whole life. This visual distortion includes palinopsia and what I perceive as film grain-like "snow," floaters, flashing effects during light transitions, and a tendency to experience simple hallucinations without visual stimuli. I only recognized that these phenomena weren't common to everyone until my mid-20s. My migraine pain itself ranges from mild to moderate (typically rated between 2 and 4 on a 10-point scale), yet they can persist for several days, sometimes extending into weeks. Occasionally, I also suffer from sharp headaches, known as ice-pick headaches, which can reach a severity of 6 or 7 during ongoing migraines. My condition is notoriously resistant to treatment. Previously, a neurologist referred me for an EEG due to my reports of olfactory hallucinations associated with my migraines. A first EEG conducted in-office revealed focal theta slowing and sharp waves during hyperventilation, localized mainly in the right temporal lobe. An ambulatory EEG, conducted for nearly 48 hours, detected similar theta activity centered this time on the left temporal lobe, along with some spindle activity observed during drowsiness, but it did not record any seizures, and I have never experienced one to my knowledge. For the past several years, I've consumed cannabis flower regularly, typically on a daily basis. Living in a state where recreational marijuana is legal, I purchase my supply from a licensed dispensary. It has consistently been my go-to remedy for migraines, and I appreciate its effects. Until recently, I have not encountered any adverse reactions. However, on Saturday, after smoking a typical amount, I had an unprecedented experience about half an hour later, during which I felt oddly unaffected by the cannabis. The episode manifested as rhythmic clusters of paroxysms, each separated by brief intervals of calm, lasting nearly 90 minutes. These paroxysms were characterized by a trembling sensation in my hamstrings and gluteal muscles, akin to stimulation from a vibrator—though I am uncertain if any actual trembling occurred. This sensation intensified and transformed as it traveled into my lower abdomen and pelvic area, where it seemed to gather force, reminiscent of the build-up associated with an orgasm yet devoid of any sexual feeling. Then, suddenly and forcefully, it would surge up my spine and "escape" through my mouth, often leading to involuntary motions and vocal noises. The paroxysms varied in intensity but generally built up to a climactic final wave that was particularly overwhelming. At times, it almost felt like an external force was interacting with my sensory nerve area in the brain. Were I not grounded in science, I might conclude it was something supernatural. The sensation felt powerful and entirely beyond my control, oddly reminiscent of an electric shock but without any accompanying pain. This strange occurrence repeated itself last night after smoking a different strain, with my boyfriend witnessing and agreeing that something unusual was taking place. At no point did I lose consciousness, experience tongue-biting, or other involuntary actions like urinating. My speech remained normal, only interrupted during the peak "wave" sensation traveling up my spine. Emotionally, I was stable—concerned yet devoid of fear or any unusual affect. I reached out to my primary care physician today, but she is currently on vacation; however, a nurse recommended that I visit the ER if it recurs and advised me to abstain from cannabis for now, which was already my plan. I am not seeing a neurologist at the moment as I am in the process of transitioning my insurance due to a new job. I am thoroughly perplexed by these experiences and wonder what they could signify. Any insights would be greatly appreciated.