Hello. I was diagnosed with Chiari in April of 2016. I have been very symptomatic for almost two years, but it has gradually gotten extremely worse. I am very weak. I can’t even open a bottle of water without help. The headaches never stop. I can’t stand up for more than 30 minutes without horrible back pain. I’ve had tons of GI problems even if that is unrelated. After seeing a neurosurgeon for the first time he said surgery would be extremely benificial. I am having decompression surgery Sepetember 27th. (It would be sooner but the surgeon is expecting the first of August) I am nervous and unsure. I don’t know how long recovery will take. How much school will I miss? Will my neck and back pain go away? Will the constant head pressure, throbbing in the back of my head, nuseau, and dizziness stop? Am I allowed to go to the fair in the meantime and ride rides? I forgot to ask my doctor. If anyone is wondering my tonsils extended 11mm. Everything else was normal. I have two other family members with Chiari so I can account for that it’s genetic.
I am so sorry you are going thru this. My 13yo is having his 2nd decompression next week. We were told just walking for 3 months after surgery. As far as roller coasters go or any similar, there is no way my son is going to be allowed to do that after undergoing another brain
surgery. He is very agreeable to this & wants to just heal properly.
My son’s NS said he can’t guarantee that all of my sons symptoms will go away- but is confident & hopeful that the worse symptoms will- his constant headache, leg pain. Right now my son is pretty nonfunctional. He missed 97 days of school last year due to severe headaches.
Praying for you that you will get better. It sounds like you found the right NS:) Hang in there & stay positive:)
Maria
Hi Catgirl,
My son had his surgery when he was the same age as you. Before surgery he was wrestling in high school and had to stop that because of the pressure it put on his neck. After surgery he was in the hospital for about 5 days. He stayed home for about 2 weeks, then returned to school, which was a little early, but he was doing well. His symptoms were better for awhile after surgery. His herniation was 20 mm.
It's important to remember, every person is unique. Some heal quickly, some take longer. I would ask your doctor about your questions, or the nurse, to see what your doctor says is right for you.
I have to say that my son wasn't allowed to ride anything prior to surgery, especially with the symptoms of dizziness and nausea. He is 23 now and needs another surgery, but many people don't need a second surgery. Hang in there and good luck!!