MS Diagnosis Journey: Kerstin’s Story in Villingen-Schwenningen
Brigachtal Woman Battles Multiple Sclerosis After Years of Misdiagnosis
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BRIGACHTAL,Germany – Kerstin Gomringer,44,of Brigachtal,describes multiple sclerosis (MS) as her “beast,” a constant companion that complicates daily life,from working to traveling. The diagnosis followed years of unexplained symptoms and a frustrating search for answers.
A Career Interrupted
Gomringer was forced to leave her position as head of governance and sales at a local company after experiencing symptoms that began in 2021. The path to an accurate diagnosis was long and arduous.
Unexplained Symptoms and Frustration
“It started with inexplicable fevers that doctors couldn’t classify,” Gomringer said. Later, she developed a range of symptoms.“It was always something: pain, numbness, or cramps. But nobody knew what it was.”
An MRI revealed lesions on her brain, but the clinical picture remained unclear. Doctors initially labeled it “unclear inflammation in the central nervous system” and started her on cortisone therapy, which provided temporary relief.
“Not Taken Seriously”
In April 2024, the symptoms returned with greater intensity. “I had massive visual disturbances and dizziness, extreme head and neck pain,” Gomringer recounted.
Despite the worsening condition, Gomringer felt dismissed by medical professionals. “This feeling that you are not taken seriously was the worst thing for me,” she said. A subsequent MRI revealed new lesions, but finding effective help remained a challenge.
Desperate for answers, Gomringer sought help online. “I sent the MRI pictures and spoke to a doctor online several times,” she explained. “That alone helped me a lot. The conversations were very detailed and competent.”
Coordination Problems and a Turning Point
As her coordination deteriorated, simple tasks became difficult.“I keep dropping things. That limits me massively,” she said. Walking became uncertain, and she experienced extreme, often unidentifiable pain. “This is a real fight every day. You try to continue, but the body tells you that it is indeed no longer possible.” She found it increasingly difficult to stand or sit for extended periods.
Diagnosis at Last
A turning point came when her orthopedist, after carefully reviewing the MRI images, referred her to a neurological specialist. In early 2025, four years after the initial symptoms, she received a diagnosis of clinically isolated syndrome (CIS), a precursor to MS.
“It was relieving to finaly no what it is, but at the same time it was very difficult to process,” Gomringer said.
Support System
Gomringer now undergoes regular physiotherapy and occupational therapy to improve coordination and strengthen her muscles.She also takes medication to manage her symptoms.“It is a constant fight against the pain. It is indeed especially bad at night,” she said.
Despite the challenges, Gomringer remains determined. She enjoys cooking and shares her recipes on her Facebook page. However, MS often disrupts her daily routines. “For example, you cut onions and suddenly you notice that it just doesn’t work anymore.Everything feels twisted in the body,” she described.
Her husband, Olaf, provides crucial support, accompanying her to appointments and assisting with daily tasks. He expressed frustration with the medical system. “You don’t get an appointment, some doctors do not take you seriously, and you are kept sent to the next doctor,” he said. “The sad thing is that she felt so often misunderstood. It took so long for someone to finally recognize what is really going on. You were not and is not doing well – and I’m so sorry for her.”
Gomringer also credits her dog, Fritz, as a source of comfort. “He is the best therapist there is!” she said.
looking Ahead
With the support of her husband and dog, Gomringer remains optimistic. Her greatest wish is to return to work and travel. While the future remains uncertain, she is determined to make the most of her situation.
“It’s difficult, but I want to work again if it is indeed possible,” she said. “You have to be able to live with this beast, and I will just make the best of it. I can’t change the situation anymore.”
About Multiple Sclerosis
According to the german Multiple Sclerosis Society, MS is an inflammatory disease of the central nervous system, affecting the brain and spinal cord.The disease typically begins in early adulthood and varies significantly in its course, symptoms, and response to therapy.
Battling Multiple Sclerosis: A Q&A with Kerstin Gomringer
What is Multiple Sclerosis (MS)?
According to the German Multiple sclerosis Society,MS is an inflammatory disease of the central nervous system,primarily affecting the brain and spinal cord.
Who is Kerstin Gomringer, and what is her story?
Kerstin Gomringer is a 44-year-old woman from Brigachtal, Germany, who