How Selma Blair’s Symptoms of MS Went Undiagnosed for 15 Years

In October, Selma Blair, known best for her roles in Cruel Intentions and Legally Blonde, shared shocking news about her multiple sclerosis diagnosis on Instagram.

“I have had symptoms for years but was never taken seriously until I fell down in front of him [Dr. Jason Berkley) trying to sort out what I thought was a pinched nerve,” she wrote. “I have probably had this incurable disease for 15 years at least. And I am relieved to at least know.”

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I was in this wardrobe fitting two days ago. And I am in the deepest gratitude. So profound, it is, I have decided to share. The brilliant costumer #Allisaswanson not only designs the pieces #harperglass will wear on this new #Netflix show , but she carefully gets my legs in my pants, pulls my tops over my head, buttons my coats and offers her shoulder to steady myself. I have #multiplesclerosis . I am in an exacerbation. By the grace of the lord, and will power and the understanding producers at Netflix , I have a job. A wonderful job. I am disabled. I fall sometimes. I drop things. My memory is foggy. And my left side is asking for directions from a broken gps. But we are doing it . And I laugh and I don’t know exactly what I will do precisely but I will do my best. Since my diagnosis at ten thirty pm on The night of August 16, I have had love and support from my friends , especially @jaime_king @sarahmgellar @realfreddieprinze @tarasubkoff @noah.d.newman . My producers #noreenhalpern who assured me that everyone has something. #chrisregina #aaronmartin and every crew member… thank you. I am in the thick of it but I hope to give some hope to others. And even to myself. You can’t get help unless you ask. It can be overwhelming in the beginning. You want to sleep. You always want to sleep. So I don’t have answers. You see, I want to sleep. But I am a forthcoming person and I want my life to be full somehow. I want to play with my son again. I want to walk down the street and ride my horse. I have MS and I am ok. But if you see me , dropping crap all over the street, feel free to help me pick it up. It takes a whole day for me alone. Thank you and may we all know good days amongst the challenges. And the biggest thanks to @elizberkley who forced me to see her brother #drjasonberkley who gave me this diagnosis after finding lesions on that mri. I have had symptoms for years but was never taken seriously until I fell down in front of him trying to sort out what I thought was a pinched nerve. I have probably had this incurable disease for 15 years at least. And I am relieved to at least know. And share. 🖤 my instagram family… you know who you are.

A post shared by Selma Blair (@selmablair) on Oct 20, 2018 at 11:23am PDT

How do symptoms of a neurological disease go masked for fifteen years?  

Symptoms of MS mimic those of other, often benign illnesses. In Blair’s case, she mistakenly thought she suffered from a pinched nerve. Symptoms often disappear after a few weeks without treatment leading a patient to believe the problem has resolved itself and delaying treatment.

No one test definitively diagnoses MS. A provider must first rule out other illnesses and often conducts an MRI of the brain to look for lesions on the brain or damage to the spinal cord.

What are the symptoms of MS?

The most common symptoms of MS include:

• Blurred or double-vision
• Pain and loss of vision
• Difficulty walking
• Prickling or “pins and needles” sensation, numbness or pain

Less known symptoms of MS include:

• Muscle weakness in arms and legs
• Poor coordination
• Muscle stiffness and spasms
• Loss of sensation
• Speech impediments
• Tremor
• Dizziness
• Hearing loss
• Concentration problems
• Difficulty paying attention
• Memory lapses
• Poor judgment

Who’s at risk for MS?

Women experience higher rates of MS diagnosis than men and Caucasians of northern European ancestry are more likely than other ethnic groups to suffer from MS, although MS occurs in most ethnic groups. People in tropical climates are less likely to suffer from MS than people from more temperate climates. Researchers believe that’s because people who live the first 15 years of their lives in tropical climates have higher levels of vitamin D. While all these categories may increase the risk of developing MS, the disease may be developed by anyone.

What should I do if I have these symptoms?

Selma Blair’s break occurred when a friend insisted she see a doctor for her symptoms. If you’ve had the symptoms listed above off and on for more than a few months, it’s time to call your provider. Women’s Health breaks down these symptoms into more concrete terms and when it’s time to sound the alarms. Keep track of your symptoms and share them with your provider. Don’t be discouraged if your provider rules out other illnesses first. Your provider doesn’t take this diagnosis lightly. Testing for other illnesses is the first step to finding the correct diagnosis and treatment so you feel like you again.

Our providers are ready to talk to you about any medical symptoms you’re experiencing. You can request an appointment through our website or by calling our clinic at (662)-282-4226.