Recently diagnosed and scared

Symptoms and Treatments
1

I am 31 years old and have always had headaches and some migranes, but was always told they were stress related or just cluster headaches. About 9 months ago I started losing my hair and getting more and more headaches, swollen lymph nodes and fatigue all the time and super depression and anxiety. I went to many dr's and not one of them could figure it out. finally my Dr. ordered an MRI due to pressure when I lay flat or bend over. The Dr. called on Monday and told me that I have Chiari malformation type 1 and it's 8mm.

I tried to make an apt with a neurosurgeon in my area but was told no one was experienced for the type of treatment I need and would not even see me for a consult. I was referred to a Dr. at the university of Washington but who knows when they will get me in.

I am super scared and don't have any answers! I was wondering if anyone else noticed thinning hair as a symptom?

Thanks!

2

I understand how all of that causes fear.

Have you seen a neurologist about the chiari? If I'm remembering it correctly, surgery is carried out in less than 50% of patients.

I have never read or heard that Chiari can cause thinning of hair or swelling of lymph nodes. Can depression or extreme stress cause it?

Go for second opinions! Or even third opinions. Sooner or later you will get to a doctor who will find answers for your problems. Keep in mind there can be more than one cause and you would need more than one specialist to find and treat the causes.

Don't let the fear beat you! You absolutely can find relief! Keep your head up, don't stop advocating for yourself, go through our resources in the Info for Members tab, and get better!

I'm sending you my best wishes and hugs!