My headache is at the back of my head. It feels like that is the only part of my head that I feel. I am concerned that I am wasting my time with a headache doctor. Is this where everyone’s head hurts? Please help, I want to make sure that I am making the right decision.
I had pain in the back of my head and was told it was more than likely the Chiari.
Also pain in head when coughing or straining in any way, looking up or down. Even my eyes hurt when I moved them side to side.
Really bad head pressure when bending over to pick up the cat etc...
These were deciding factors for me not waiting to see the headache specialist and go through endless meds.
I am still keeping my appt with him (I couldn't get in til June) but i have to say the pain in the back of my head is gone and the pressure is mostly gone as is the brain fog and most dizziness and I am only 1.75 months post op.
I do still get some migraine pain and neck, ear and jaw pain and temple pain.
Not sure if it will go away too or is caused by something else yet.
I am keeping that headache specialist appt to find out.
So, it is really all about what your NS tells you he/she feels is caused by Chiari.
I was told I was a good candidate w/ 85% reduction of overall symptoms predicted.
That was my estimate.
What were you told by your NS?
He told me he was not sure if the surgery would help me. I took my mom with me and I feel they all believe they are caused by stress. He gave me 3 months of trying the meds and if not better see him to do the surgery. I am just really frustrated with the statement that it is stress. Sitting at my desk is very painful. I do see the headache doctor Wednesday. I know what a stress headache feels like.
My Chiari headache was all over, we all have different experiences with intensity and area of pain. Stress would definitely make the pain worse, that’s for sure! But it wasn’t the cause of the pain for me. Have you tried many pain meds? Preventatives? If you haven’t I would consider it. I know you are in a lot of pain and want it fixed as soon as possible, but there is an amount of “due diligence” that might be helpful for you, and if fails at least you have taken steps to rule out an alternative to surgery. Hang in there Hope.
Thank you. I will try it and see.