Hydrocephalus

I am 35yo and was recently dx with hydrocephalus.  I have no symptoms or any affects whatsoever.  I have had an MRI and have visited a neurologist.  I have a second opinion on Wednesday Sept 16, 2009.  There may be talk of having a shunt.  My question is:  How long does the procedure take?  How long will I expect to be out of work? How long is the recovery time?   I just would like to know this as soon as I can before surgery (if it is actually requested) takes place.

[selmaS]

Hi...may I ask were u told y u had hydrocephalus?....I am not a dr, but know that it can be the result of other conditions like syringomyelia or chiari malformation.

Please ask ur dr at ur next visit if ne of these is a possibility...of course there r other reasons for having excess fluid on the brain, but it may help to ask.

Good luck
"selma"

[DBDesigns]

I was originally diagnosed with swelling around my optic nerve, in which I was sent for an MRI, and then a consult with neurologist.  The neurologist scheduled me for a LP with cisternogram.  The neurologist has told me I hacve excess fluid in my brain and that I will most likely need a shunt placement.  He is sending me for a second opinion.

[DBDesigns]

And also, I have no symptoms whatsoever of having hydro - no headaches, no balance problems, no gait problems, etc.  I have been playing drums for 20 years and listen to music at an elevated volume for years - if anyone should have a headache...it should be me. :-)

[selmaS]

U would think so....but it is funny how the body works and responds...there is a thing called silent migraines....u can have a migraine with out HA pain.....go figure.

It is possible that u do not have the typical symptoms...we r all different and can not go by the standard list of symptoms for conditions ne more than we can for side effects for medications....most say drowsiness and I am running around like a chicken with it's head chopped off.....suggested syptoms (symptoms) and side effects r just that...suggestions of what might happen...not what will.

Get the second opinion....did u have the LP yet?
The NS would be the best to give u guidelines as to an approx timeline for the layup after susrgery.....remember we r all different.....u could need more time or less than what the dr says as a typical timeframe.

Good luck tomorrow !!
"selma"

[DBDesigns]

I have had the LP already, and have the second opinion this afternoon - I have the MRI and Cisternogram on CD for the doctor.  Thanks for the wishes, I also have my church and family praying for me :-)