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Hello my name is Robert. This is my second diagnosis of Chiari. The first time was 20 years ago at age 19. I am currently waiting on the results of a second MRI. Even a second time I am still a little nervous.

Welcome, Robert. I hope that you are able to find the information that you are looking for. Good luck with this part of your Chiari journey.

Hi there! I don’t blame you. Even though we look for answers, the solutions can be pretty scary. I wish you the best!

Hi Robert,
Chiari is a strange disease. As you start this adventure, you will have many questions. I’m so happy I found this site to address my concerns. If u want to know what to expect regarding surgery or your having a strange side affect. Let us know and someone will let you know there experience.

Hi Apple,

This actually my second time around. The first time was in 1996 at the age of 19. The first surgery I had posterior Discectomy. I meet with a Neuro surgeon on January 4th. I'm a little nervous as I don't know what they will do for relief.

Hi Robert,
One thing that I found on utube was several videos showing the actual surgery or animated videos you can watch. They were very good.
My procedure was done in October 2014 in Emory Hospital in Atlanta. Prior to this surgery I had a fusion of c5/c6. I went back to work for about six months and things continued to get worse. I couldn’t walk for extended periods. I experienced extreme facial pain and pain behind my eyes. I had severe stomach pain. I also experienced hearing and eye problems. After surgery I experienced relief regarding my balance. The surgery is not a cure.

You asked about pain relief. From what I have read, cymbalta, an anti seizure med and morphine were suggested. I’m on cymbalta but the side effects are horrible. Also, for nerve pain gabapentin. I didn’t like gabapentin.

In my situation, I ended up in an assisted home. Please keep in mind I’m 62 and had other factors. Hang In there and let us here how things go.

Thank you Apple. I appreciate the information and support. Are there any certain videos on YouTube you suggest. I look forward to talking to you more when I learn more info.
Thank youRobert