Two years ago today I heard the word Chiari for the first time. Two years ago I walked into my NP’s office bracing myself for a possible diagnosis of multiple sclerosis; I walked out stunned, confused, anxious and scared. I needed more information but was afraid to find out more at the same time. Afraid of what could lay ahead.
I’ve come a long way in the past two years. A successful decompression surgery, a brand new baby and a slowly growing business. Life is crazy busy but it’s good. I’m grateful to have the craziness and to feel well.
We found out a couple of months ago that I have a cyst in my sinus cavity. I had a nasty sinus infection just before the baby was born — my guess is that the antibiotics I took didn’t completely clear the “junk” out, causing the cyst. Just after delivery I started having some random headaches again as well. I’m wondering if the cyst is what is causing them. The doctor has offered surgery as a possible solution but can’t guarantee it will solve the problem. Right now his prognosis is 50:50.
I’m still on the fence about surgery. I’d love to be headache free again but don’t know if a 50% chance of relief is worth having surgery for. When we were faced with those odds regarding my brain surgery I didn’t think much about it. I knew I had to try it. But in this case I just don’t know.
In medical speak, the doctors say my skull is too small for my brain. I like to turn it to my advantage and say my brain is too big for my head. Either way, maybe it will help to spill stuff here.
A friend of mine recommended I read your blog. Your posts echo what I am going through right now. I was diagnosed one year ago almost to the day. I am currently managing the pain (somewhat) but looking into my other options. Thank you for your inspiration!
I know you are struggling with the decision whether to have surgery. Hopefully time will show you the clear answer. We’ll keep praying that you arrive at the right decision quickly and that the pain subsides soon!