When I cough I get an abnormally strong build up of pressure in my head and I see stars. Is that a normal Chiari symptom? It’s starting to freak me out because it happens now almost every time I cough rather than occasionally. Sometimes the stars look like little they have tails of light, and I jokingly call this “seeing tadpoles.” lol Is it normal to see different visual disturbances? For instance I have a lot of visual disturbances but they aren’t the same kind every time. They are usually colored blocks of light, circles, or everything goes kinda pixilated…it’s been a long time since I had to deal with seeing double thankfully!
Amy,
Unfortunately, I believe, this is a symptom of Chiari. Have you been decompressed? Just curious as to whether you are pre-op or post-op. A lot of us experience visual disturbances during different times. I too see stars when I cough hard or sometimes even when I sneeze. I have been decompressed, but still have a fluid build up in my head. You should probably be checked by a neuro-opthamalogist or at least your regular eye doctor. They can do a test to see the inner part of your eye to determine if there is pressure on your optical nerve. If there is that needs to be reported to your neurologist/neurosurgeon. The visual stuff can be very annoying! We all understand what you are going thru.
Take care,
Carla
Amy.....totally agree with Carla.....it is a very problematic Sx of Chiari.
I too see a Neuro-opthamologist like carla.....IMHO...a regular eye doctor may not be that well versed in our condition.
Let us know how you are doing.
Lori