continual headache/low csf

[pacer412]

Massive headache 2/8/05--have had a headache ever since. Level of pain varies from moderate to severe. Other symptons include nasuea,confusion, unsteady gait at times, difficulty grabbing words, exhaustion and weakness at times.  I'm fine in the recliner, within 10-20 minutes after getting up, I feel naseau, exhaustion and increased head pain.  The pain isin't in the same places.  It's random--one side, the other side, top and back of the head above the neck(not at the same time).  Have seen a neurologist for over a year.  Had cat and mri's--normal.  Cisternogram--normal.  Myleogram, whole spine--found 15-20 parenureal cysts: c6-7 rounded prominence of contrast within the nerve root sleeve--noextravasation of adjacent tissue. c6-7 disc/spur complex attenuates ventral csf and hypertrophic change causing moderate right foraminal narrowing.  T4-5, T6-7 disc protrusionwith both discs impressing on ventral sac. T12-L1, hypertrophic bony change associated with a smaller left paracentral protrusion.  They say that there are no definate levels to indentify a csf leak.
I am seeing a headache specialist now--wants to try hospitalization to break cycle of headache.  I still believe there is a csf leak.  Had lp which was 64--don't know if that is considered low.
Is it possible to have a undentifiable csf leak with my symptoms?  What other reasons could cause the headache of this duration.  I have been seeing a psychiatrist and have been on meds for over 10 years for mild depression.  It does not seem to be psycological.  Your advice would be greatly appreciated.  
Pacer412

[avalongod]

I'm not a medical doctor (clinical psychology is my "realm") so take my thoughts with a grain of salt.

It "sounds" (but check with your doctor for confirmation) like your symptoms are consistent with a stroke.  You said onset of symptoms was 1.5 years ago?  The symptoms you mentioned all sound consistent with types of loss of function consistent with a stroke.  An assessment by a neuropsychologist may be able to confirm loss of functioning.  

The "grabbing for words" is called "aphasia" and variants of this are common in stroke victims, particularly when the stroke (or other form of brain damage) is located in the speech centers of the brain (Broca's area).  

Generally most brain functioning that will be regained is regained in the first 1-2 months after an incident happened, although occupational therapy may help even after this time.  Also, does your doctor have you taking precautions against having another stroke.

Again, as I'm not a medical doctor I can't comment on csf leaks.  But I suspect the headaches could be a consequence of the original injury.  Nonetheless, keep on your doctors until you get a definite answer.

[ScaredFox]

64 is very very high actually. High pressure will also give you a headache that makes you wish you were dead. I've been from no spinal fluid to high levels. Are you sure it was 64?? That's dangerous..
ScaredFox