? about CINE MRI and Update on me

[jll88]

If you have (or do) read my previous post you'll know where I'm coming from...I finally got to see a neurologist who knows a thing or two about Chiari, but I still haven't got as far as I'd like to.  I only have a 4mm Chiari which the neurologist said is not much, but he agreed that the CSF flow is what really matters and my MRI shows a possible blockage.  However, since it's so small, he's taking the "safe" route and has prescribed me topamax for migraines to see if that makes a difference.  He said I should feel a difference in a week, but I can't get in to see him again for 6 weeks.  I figure I will call in 1-2 weeks and ask to be scheduled for the CINE MRI so that he has the results when I see him next.

I am a little worried about the MRI's, both regular and CINE.  My symptoms completely disappear when I am laying flat on my back.  Does this mean that the scans, which are done flat on your back, may not accurately show the severity of my problem?  This is a complete shot in the dark, but a question worth asking.

Also, a further update - I have started vestibular physical therapy at the recommendation of my ENT.  I had a vestibular evaluation when my symptoms first started back in November 2009 and it showed nothing.  Now, I have weak right eye muscles and trouble with all the eye movement/tracking exercises they give me.  The Dr said those exercises are for your CNS and the ones that aren't bothering me are for the inner ear.  I'm hoping the first vestibular evaluation just missed this, and not that things are getting worse!

Let me know what you guys think! Thanks

[selmaS]

HI ..Carolyn is right ...some facilities do use an upright MRI machine, but some drs feel this doesn't make much of a difference....tell Issac Newton...lol...gravity does play a role we can all feel that it does !

Most of us here that had a CSF blockage did not have the upright MRI...so it may not be needed to determine an issue.DO make sure the dr is aware u have a change in issues when u lie down...

Also I wanted to point out that symptoms can and do cycle, so ur eye issues may be an indication u r in a flare.

I am glad too, that u found a dr that sees it is  blockage not size of herniation that can cause issues.

Good luck and keep us posted

"selma'

[*Stormy*]

Hello!

First of all, I really glad that you found a NL that agrees the problem is the blockage more than the herniation..yah!!! Your plan for the MRI sounds like a good one...I would do whether you feel better or not...because these drugs just mask the problem and there is always a chance of progression.

I have read some material that states that they should be doing these MRI's standing up just for that reason. Most of us have a lot more blockage when we have the weight of the brain pushing down!! However, I would hope that even lying down, it would show if there was an area that is easily blocked. I don't know too much about it but I'm sure one of the other members can fill you in on that.

As for your eye, it could be either. I was having many, many problems with my eyes yet my ophthalmologist told me that my eye was healthy and normal. I know that my eyes are weak b/c my vision constantly goes double and I can feel the muscle pain in my eyes when I really push to focus on something. I don't get in for a re-eval until the end of this month so I don't know if the results will be different this time (plus I have a verified dx this time too!) But I would say..it could be just that they missed it...but there is a possibility of progression too. Either way, you are following the right course with your plan of action so rest easy :)

Take care
Carolyn