I know, I know, its been a long time since I've updated about my health. I usually try to do anything to NOT think about my health...things have just been crappy lately! The last surgery that I had (just about 2 years ago) was on my lower back. They went in at the L4/L5 level and snipped my 'tethered' spinal cord. In doing this, they damaged the nerves that go to my bladder and legs. I've had trouble with my bladder since the nerves were damaged. Tomorrow I will have surgery at the Lahey Clinic in Massachusetts. The problem I've had is that I can't fully empty my bladder; this causes it to stretch and high pressure that could back up into the kidneys (really bad). So, I'm having a tube put through my abdomen, into my bladder to help empty it fully. Sorry if this was "too much information", I just thought I'd share what's going on.
Monday, 29 June, 2009
Its been a while!
Surgery tomorrow!
Hi,
I found your blog b/c of some serious dizzy spells I have had recently, and a constant pressure in the back of my neck. It has gotten to the point where I can't even where a ponytail, as it causes dizziness and increased pressure. I am so sorry that the surgeries were not helpful for you. :( I do not have a chiari diagnosis, but a POTS diagnosis. (Postural orthostatic tachycardia syndrome)
Hi Heather :)
I feel like I know you, may from a forum or somewhere else but I found your site from poking around the internet doing some research. My daughter (who is 3) has Chiari (along with other issues associated with VACTERL's). She had a Tethered Cord (released in March of 08) and has a completely neurogenic bladder. Her right kidney is all but shot, her left has grade 5 reflux. She will cath for life and we are looking forward to the day when she can get a mitrofanoff. I am wondering if that is the procedure you will be having.
Also, I see, in reading back that you had your decompression done by Dr. Bolognese. I was considering having him do my decompression. I have a 10 mm herniation (my dd has a 5 mm) but some recent issues in the news are dissuading me. I would love to hear from someone who has actually been a patient of his.
If you feel up to talking I would love to hear from you.
Amber
http://family.kentuckystudio.com
schmidt.amber@kentuckystudio.com