Mixed feelings about my Neurosurgeon

[absolutemomtwofour]

I had my 1st appt today with a Neurosurgeon, I am having mixed feelings on if I like him.  He basically started off with the you are borderline Chiari because it is only 3mm "BUT" just because it is only 3mm does not mean it is not causing your symptoms, he said that he believes that my headaches and a few other symptoms are def from chiari but not sure if he would consider surgery unless I have a diminished CSF flow.  

I like the fact that he wants to coordinate with other Drs. so he has me scheduling to see a Neurologist who specializes in headaches mainly because I do have neck problems and he wants to make sure we are not missing anything that could be an easier fix.

I also am scheduled to get a CINE MRI after I see the Neruologist but problem is it is all in 3 months since that is the earliest they can get me in, how am I supposed to deal with the pain for 3 months :( and no one will give me anything except neurotin :(

[absolutemomtwofour]

Also he did not do any cognitive testing, I know 100% that I cannot stand without tilting, leaning falling when my eyes are shut and legs together so that throws me off as to why he did not do that testing.

[selmaS]

  Hi the other neuro tests are done after they have a result on a CINE>..and yeah it is all hurry up and wait .....that is one thing thru all this we learn to do is wait so hopefully we gain patience as well....doing all this while still getting a DX and a treatment plan helps for if/when you should have surgery as it too is a waiting game.

So far your Dr is telling you the right info...surgery can not be done if there is not an obstruction to CSF flow...as surgery is done to restore flow...

Surgery is not a cure for pain and symptoms but many do find some relief ...and things are deff not as bad/painful as it was b4 surgery.

If you are not a surgical candidate your Drs will help you with PM and other options...and hopefully know what is causing your pain.

Really at this point the best thing for pain is relax ad avoid certain activities.....as they can trigger pain to worsen...most meds will not help or help for any period of time...plus they can impede the use of pain meds should you require surgery in the future...

Trust everything that can be done is being done....I had a drop attack in '07 which required 2 surgeries for injuries sustained during my fall and did not have surgery until '09,,,it takes time and you will get thru it...

[absolutemomtwofour]

Thank you Selma, I think I get nervous because I push through so much and I am afraid the dr thinks everything is ok when it is not.

I am not to bad off in the am but by the time 10:00 rolls around I cannot stop the headaches they are constant all day and the nausea. I just wish something could help me feel better.

I appreciate all of the support everyone hear gives, it helps me relax a little :)

[selmaS]

  We all get nervous of the unknown and when you have a condition that most Drs are not familiar with.....

My worst time, was in the AM with IBS issues....but I could barely walk by the end of the day.....no matter how much time I sat or was on my feet....

Try a slower start to your morning and look to what you eat and drink in the AM as it could play a role too....