intracranial pressure after surgery

[gjjl]

I was wondering, for those who have had decompression surgery, how long did the intracranial pressure last? I am 3 weeks out from a 2nd surgery and still have head pressure pains when I get up, cough  sneeze or just change positions to quickly. I am probably just paranoid since I had a spinal fluid leak. If you had the surgery please share your experience :) I am much appreciative!!!!

[The_beat_goes_on]

I'm sorry you're having complications! were you diagnosed with chemical / sterile meningitis?  That was one of my original complications from the first decompression and from what I understand the inflammation limits the absorption of CSF and for me it caused secondary communicating hydrocephalus for which I'm shunted.  It is not a perfect solution! but when it works, it really, really works.  The idea of more surgery is so daunting! especially when it comes to cutting your f*ing head open AGAIN.  I broke down before my last shunt replacement.  But I also realized that I can't live with the pressure.  Have you had a lumbar puncture to check for inflammation?  if anything they could try another round of steroids.

[gjjl]

No lumbar to check. I have just been taking is really easy. If problems persist I'm calling my surgeon on Monday. I hope you're doing well and healing! !!!

[Juleslynne]

I just posted re the same thing. I am two and a half years since decompression surgery and was pain free all of that time.  Now I am experiencing that same awful pain when I get up, cough or sneeze.  I do not want to think of this coming back.  Any suggestions as to what my options are anyone?

[gjjl]

I wish I could tell you it's normal but I honestly don't know. If I find out something I'll let you know. Best wishes for you!

[selmaS]

  Has the leak resolved? If not, your pressure will continue while you have a leak.....

I do not remember exactly how long the pressure issues were post op...but I know they lasted for some time.....

[gjjl]

The leak was successfully fixed on Feb 16th as far as I know. My surgeon really thought that it was stopped. I am praying that is the case and the pressure is just a side effect of healing from surgery. Having 2 surgeries so close together has taken a toll on me and honestly I can't go through it again so soon. I am reluctant to even bring it up to my surgeon in fear that the leak hasn't resolved.

[KerriC1]

I don't like it when I think something sends and doesn't! Happens often to me! If I were you though I would call them and mention it. It may be nothing to be terribly concerned with, but it may not be and its better to be safe than sorry! Let us know what you find out. Crossing my fingers that it will be all good news!

[KerriC1]

Hi gjjl! I can certainly understand being concerned since you've already had a leak repair. Have you called your NS to ask what they say? For me the pressure kinda never really left although I had some times where it was better. I'm pushing 8 months post op and the last several months have been almost unbearable with pressure and noises in the ear and stuff. I'm very confused with this myself! I really hope you start feeling better soon, you've been through an awful lot!

[gjjl]

Oh no! I was hoping you were doing better!!! I just realized that my pm didn't send. I had written you days ago. I hate it when that happens. I am hesitant to call in fear if finding something wrong. I can't really use my experience from three first surgery since I had a leak. This pressure doesn't feel as bad as it was. My head will throb from just rolling over in bed. I should give my ns a call.