Strange symptoms

[LRW72]

Hi,
I am a female in my thirties, and I have had two surgeries for Chiari Malformation since 2009. Since my last surgery, in 2010, I have had some strange symptoms. My heart rate is much faster than it used to be. It usually is around 100 bpm. I get dizzy and have head rushes when I stand or have to bend over and stand back up. I found some information about Dysautonomia and Orthostatic intollerance. It seems to fit, but I don't know how to approach a doctor about it. I have twitches in my right leg, and now my hands. The twitch in my leg has been happening since my surgery, but I did not have the problem before.

Except for the heart rate and twitches, I had some of these symptoms associated with Chiari, but I just seem to be getting worse since my surgery instead of better. Any suggestions? My neuologist is useless. Should I go to a cardiologist?

Thanks,
LRW

[Dr. Kokil Mathur]

Hi
Welcome to the MedHelp forum!
You probably still have some neurological problem due to Ciari. Take a second opinion from another neurologist.
It is also possible that the dizziness and increased heart rate is due to anemia, low blood pressure, hyperthyroidism, low grade fever, low blood sugar, anxiety and panic disorder, heart causes like sinus tachycardia and palpitations, alcohol, coffee, effect of certain drugs etc.
The best thing would be to consult a general practitioner or PCP and try and assess what is the cause of your problem. Then proper referral for concerned specialist can take things further and get you proper treatment. Take care!

[ftworthrn]

I would go to your PCP and let him/her decide who you should be referred to.  If your neurologist is useless, sounds like you could use a new neurologist (I understand that that's not always easy with issues such as chiari malformation)