I've had my lumbar shunt for 10 yrs, but just got an adjustable valve in April. The past 4-6 weeks I have had increased headaches and spinal pain w/ vision and hearing disturbances. I've had occasional headaches since surgery, but definitely becoming more frequent. I've also noticed that my side is very tender when my pain increases. I guess I have 2 questions; 1. do any of you have seasonal adjustments? (I'm thinking it may be related to weather changes), and 2. do you notice any pain or discomfort at valve site? (I wonder if it gets tender when draining off fluid).

I did contact my optician and neurosurgeon. The optician said I needed a new prescription, but no swelling or anything concerning. The neurosurgeon sent me for x-rays to make sure everything's still connected and in place..I haven't heard back from them yet. I honestly have no idea if it's low pressure, high pressure, Chiari Malformation (which I developed as a result of my shunt over draining the past 3 years), or something else. I don't want to panic, but get so anxious anytime something changes. I know you all understand, so thought I'd get your thoughts.

Sorry I missed this Julie, my computer has been playing tricks on me.

I have had times when I feel a twinge or two at the valve site, but I'm not sure why we would. The tubes are connected to both ends of the valve and it drains in the lower pelvis. I sometimes feel a burning sensation there, in my lower gut, which is where my shunt drains to.
I have noticed that as my body gets used to the new setting, the symptoms start creeping back. Then we lower the adjustment and it gets better for a while and then need to adjust the valve again. Bear in mind, we aren't supposed to do a whole lot of twisting. Might you have dislodged a tube??

It is always possible I've done something, but they did do x-rays. I'm in Columbus and neuro in Cleveland, so it's taking longer than I'd like. It's nice to know it's not completely foreign though..thanks for sharing!

Did they do a myelogram to track the path of your spinal fluid? That would also show any possible leaks.