Sign-in to Ask A Doctor - 24x7
OR
Sign in with Google
Suggest Treatment For Urinary Incontinence
Question: I'm sure I have cauda equine syndrome -urinary incontinence, burning in groin and weakness in my legs. Had mri - crowding of nerve roots but not compression getting very worried
Brief Answer:
Might be residual damage symptoms.
Detailed Answer:
I read your question carefully and I understand your concern.
I am reading from another query you have submitted that you have had another episode of cauda equina. Could you elaborate a little bit more on that, when was that, what was the cause, the severity of symptoms and whether you fully recovered after, or there were some residual symptoms.
Those symptoms you have now could be indicative of cauda equina syndrome. They are somewhat atypical because most commonly bladder issues consist in urinary retention the opposite of incontinence and beside weakness there is intense sciatica pain which you do not mention. That is why there is the possibility of this not being an acute compression but residua of the past episode which can leave some damage to the nerves with these type of residual symptoms.
It is unclear who were you evaluated from this time around. Since you must have seen a neurosurgeon and a neurologist at the time it would be preferable if it was again someone who is familiar with your condition and your status when you were last discharged. Since cauda equina is a serious issue and it is better to overworry than be sorry later, a neurosurgeon opinion would be indicated. If you have access to MGH as you suggest that would be great since it is one of the best centers in the world.
I remain at your disposal for further questions.
Might be residual damage symptoms.
Detailed Answer:
I read your question carefully and I understand your concern.
I am reading from another query you have submitted that you have had another episode of cauda equina. Could you elaborate a little bit more on that, when was that, what was the cause, the severity of symptoms and whether you fully recovered after, or there were some residual symptoms.
Those symptoms you have now could be indicative of cauda equina syndrome. They are somewhat atypical because most commonly bladder issues consist in urinary retention the opposite of incontinence and beside weakness there is intense sciatica pain which you do not mention. That is why there is the possibility of this not being an acute compression but residua of the past episode which can leave some damage to the nerves with these type of residual symptoms.
It is unclear who were you evaluated from this time around. Since you must have seen a neurosurgeon and a neurologist at the time it would be preferable if it was again someone who is familiar with your condition and your status when you were last discharged. Since cauda equina is a serious issue and it is better to overworry than be sorry later, a neurosurgeon opinion would be indicated. If you have access to MGH as you suggest that would be great since it is one of the best centers in the world.
I remain at your disposal for further questions.
Above answer was peer-reviewed by :
Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar
Thank you for your reply
I had L4 L5 fusion for cauda equine syndrome 3 years ago. At that time I had urinary problems with retention, pain down legs and saddle anesthesia. Now I cannot urinate sitting down, but I can if I stand up and go in a diaper. My groin is burning terribly and I am developing weakness and pain down ;my legs.
My Dr. last time was an orthopedic spine Dr. Now I am very concerned as this has been going on for almost a month. I know the name of a neurosurgeon at MGH and I think I will call and try to get a second opinion.
I had L4 L5 fusion for cauda equine syndrome 3 years ago. At that time I had urinary problems with retention, pain down legs and saddle anesthesia. Now I cannot urinate sitting down, but I can if I stand up and go in a diaper. My groin is burning terribly and I am developing weakness and pain down ;my legs.
My Dr. last time was an orthopedic spine Dr. Now I am very concerned as this has been going on for almost a month. I know the name of a neurosurgeon at MGH and I think I will call and try to get a second opinion.
Brief Answer:
Read below.
Detailed Answer:
Thank you for bringing some more details.
So your symptoms include pain as well and it appears you had completely recovered until previous to this last month. That renders the possibility of cauda equina more likely.
In that case and considering how disabling cauda equina can leave a patient, a 2nd neurosurgical opinion is definitely recommended.
I hope things work out for the best.
Read below.
Detailed Answer:
Thank you for bringing some more details.
So your symptoms include pain as well and it appears you had completely recovered until previous to this last month. That renders the possibility of cauda equina more likely.
In that case and considering how disabling cauda equina can leave a patient, a 2nd neurosurgical opinion is definitely recommended.
I hope things work out for the best.
Above answer was peer-reviewed by :
Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar
Answered by
Get personalised answers from verified doctor in minutes across 80+ specialties
