Ms diagnosis with chiari type 2

I was diagnosed with chiari type 2 as a child because of neurological problems. My symptoms are getting worse rapidly. Chiari and ms symptoms are very close. I have some symptoms that only go with ms like brain lesions and autoimmune components. I am being told I can't get a diagnosis for ms because I can't have a spinal tap because of risk of death from the procedure with chiari. My neurologist is pushing radical brain surgery when the worsening symptoms in my opinion is probably ms related. Brain malformation will not cause lesions. How do I fight the Drs when I don't have the strength after first getting up each day, trying 2 be a normal single mom who also has 2 work 12 he shifts for a health care career that I can no longer function in because of pain, weakness, rapid decrease in fine motor skills. What then? Forget the medical tx. I will not have health insurance if I lose my job.

[puppiesrcute]

So sorry things are going so tough for you.  I will say a prayer for you.

[bagheesmom]

   You are correct about Chiari and MS symptoms being similiar or the same.
   I found out this spring that I have Chiari 1 Malformation. Sorry to say I dont know the difference between the two, but am wondering why you cant have an LP done? I had mine done after my Chiari Dx.
   I went to a Chiari specialist and he ruled out that being the source of my problems. So if its possible for you to see a specialist I would highly recommend it. They can help you sort out what is causing what. Jmho
   Best of luck to you.

[kelly97]

Chiari 2 is worse than type 1.  My mom had a syrinx with her chiari malformation.  Maybe your doctor doesn't want to do anything that will disturb the flow of CSF, since the malformation may already being limiting it.  I have heard that surgery is the only way to stop the progression of symptoms. And I know it can cause a multitude of symptoms.  

However, Chiari won't cause brain lesions. I'm guessing that's what your MRI showed?  Are you already taking prescription medicine to help with your symptoms at least for now?  If you went to another neurologist, they may not require a spinal tap for a Dx of MS. I had a spinal tap, however, mine was negative, and I still have a Dx of MS.  I went to an MS specialist at an MS Center in a University.  

Is it possible for you to take FMLA and go on short term disability with your work until you get all of this figured out? The FMLA is really important to set-up with or without the MS right now - you do have the Chiari malformation and your doctor should fill out the paperwork for you.  Then your job is protected when you need to take time off. I would HIGHLY suggest that.

Take care,
Kelly