Hi,

I'm getting an Lp shunt in the 27th May. I 've read up alot on them. I just have a few questions

I don't drink alcohol since diagnosis as it always made me feel worse so that won't bother me if I can never drink it again. I s there any other foods and drinks you should not/never have?

Is exercise restricted for a couple of months? or is there types of exercised you should never do with having a LP shunt?

Any info anyone has will be much appreciated

I was told to not doing anything that required severe twisting, but "normal" exercises was fine. I think there are also some extreme amusement rides that should be avoided, but I doubt that would be a problem for you. I was a bit sore until the stitches came out, but after two weeks, I was feeling completely "normal." Minimize any lifting, keep it light until you heal, but everything else was fine.

My docs never did limit my food intake, but I think that was their error.

I was advised when I had mine, that for the first few months I was to avoid stretching, bending and vigorous activities, and then to build up slowly. You'll see a physio most likely while you're in hospital so they will be able to advise you accordingly. As for food I wasn't told there were things I should and shouldn't eat, but to maintain a healthy diet which I was already doing anyway.

Alcohol as you've already found doesn't help and I rarely bother since being shunted, as i do notice the difference quite quickly. As Linda says you will be sore for a few weeks but after that you'll start to feel back to normal.

Best of luck for the surgery and please keep us updated.

I was told no bending, twisting, stretching, lifting, or strenuous exercise, but they just did the skin glue instead of stitches. It does vary depending on type of shunt, valve, etc. I'm sure your surgeon will be able to give you a better idea after surgery, but 4-6 week recovery seems to be about average here.

I couldn't eat anything after midnight, but that was only limitation to food and drink. They did encourage caffeine following surgery, but I had some low pressure issues.

Good luck, and keep us posted!!!

Julie

Thanks for the info everyone. I'l defo keep you all updated and hopefully have success with it xxx