Going to Weingart @ Hopkins 1st time....for a 2nd opinion

General
1

I found out about the Chiari this past summer, I saw Dr. Caputy at GW in DC and he was short and dismissive, barely engaged my father and I. I’ve gotten worse, not sure if it is the Chiari but I need answers as my walking is getting worse and I’m struggling to keep my job. Here is my list of current medical problems:

Medical Conditions

Chiari Malformation - 5mm, CINE MRI report said “some attenuation” of CSF flow
Mild Scoliosis
Ectopic Atrial Heart Beat, heart murmur
Heat causes dizziness, confusion, slow moving, vision
Ataxia left leg, gait issues
Bad pain in hips, pelvis, low back
Bad pain mid back
Fibromyalgia, suspected RA
Autoimmune? ANA Test came back borderline positive
TMJ, jaw pain
Suspected Apnea
Glucose sensitivity
Pannus/arthritis on Atlantoaxial Joint
Weakness/fatigue, unable to walk around block without exhaustion
All over pain
Ringing in ears
Trouble emptying bladder, go frequently
Most symptoms began after pregnancy in 2007
Handwriting and typing mistakes
Memory issues getting worse, comments at work about it and my “shuffle walking”, constantly catching feet on the ground

I am hoping this doctor listens to me, I am at a loss and suffering daily. Any advice on the appointment? I was told I can ask any interns to leave the room so I have his full attention, after so many horrible doctors appointments I’m nervous. I’m taking the day off from work as Johns Hopkins in Baltimore is local but not close to me. Help! Thank you for any advice :slight_smile:

2

I wish you the best of luck!, Although Im just starting this Chiari journey, with my first NS appointment on monday ( fingers crossed!) I have already looked in to other NS near me just incase, and I have Dr. Weingart on my list. Please let us know how everything goes. Im similar to you, I have all the symptoms, have been to a gagillion different dr.s for this and that. and I was told my chiari 6mm was only "borderline" and shouldnt be a problem! ( That was of course told to me by a physiatrist, treating me for the chronic pain and numbness. in which she has no answer for why im experiencing)

Fingers Crossed, Hope everything goes well!!