Hello everyone. I am just frustrated. I have had my LP shunt since Jan. of 2010 and had a second revision done this August. But all of the sudden this week, my headache was back. Pressure, eye's are hurting, the whole bit. I went into the ER cause I was afraid(and still kind of am) that my new revision is clogged again. They game me some pain meds, which took some of the edge off, and consulted with the on call neurosurgeon. All the said was to send me home with some fiorecet and it should help. Ugh. So they sent me home and yes, the Fiorecet does help to a point. But I feel like all it does is make me drunk or high. As soon as it wears off all of my symptoms are still there. I can't take it while I am working. And I HAVE to get back to work. I am the one that makes the most and carries the insurance. I just feel hopeless. I HATE taking the Diamox. It makes me feel so shitty like a zombie and then it makes my hands and feet hurt so bad. I just don't know what to do. And you guys are the only ones who seem to understand. Thank you all for listening!!

I am so sorry!!! I would definitely contact the neurosurgeon that did your most recent revision. There can be scar tissue, kinking, and other complications that can interfere with functioning, so best to have them check it asap. The oncall staff never seem as thorough or invested, and they're not as familiar with your case. I know it's completely frustrating, but try to take one day at a time and focus on getting better. Do you have FMLA or any short term disability coverage? Your human resources or employee assistance program may be able to assist, if additional time is needed. I know it's not easy, but sometimes you have to just do the best with what you have. I really hope it's a quick and easy fix..hang in there!!!

*sending a *
I'm so sorry to hear that the headaches are back! I second that suggestion of getting in touch with your own neurosurgeon ASAP to see if he can get you in and get things back on track. Hang in there, sweetie!

so sorry to hear that ur LP shunt has given u so much trouble i really hope that they figure out whats going on soon i know the drugs r crap they have amillion after effects but they help in thier own ways. i am sending u a huge [You must be registered and logged in to see this image.]

So I cannot get in to my neurosurgeon till next Wednesday. They did start me on Diamox right away though. But what confuses me is they said that if I am having more issues or questions to call my old Neurosurgeon in Portland! The one who put the shunt in! I have not seen him in almost 3 yrs??? Has anyone else had this issue?? I feel like I am being passed off. Like they don't wanna touch me because they did not do the original surgery.

Ugh, yes..I hate that!!! No one wants to be responsible, so they just keep passing you off..it's ridiculous! I'm glad you have an apppointment scheduled w/ your most recent surgeon. They can suggest whatever they want, but they were the last to treat you..they ARE your neurosurgeon now, so make sure they understand returning to former surgeon isn't an option. Take your symptom log or try to track back to when your symptoms started again..be specific. Check out the guide for talking to your surgeon and make a list of questions..you've been through it all, so should have a good idea of what's involved in the diagnosis and treatment process.

They can still refuse to treat you, but most states they need to give notice and find acceptable replacement prior to discontinuing treatment..especially since actively treating you. You can check your state licensing board or medical society for specific regulations in your state. I would make sure you get the refusal to treat in writing and request 3 referrals. Make sure you get a copy of your records and scans (MRI, CT Scan, etc). It's a pain, but you don't want to work w/ someone that doesn't want to be there..hang in there!!!


Julie

I am so sorry to hear that you are going through so much right night. I found out yesterday that I will be getting a vp shunt in the near future. I was on fioricet pre diagnoses and my dr told me that I should only be taking it once or twice a week for some reason, I can't remember. Just thoughts would tell you that about my experience with fioricet, although it did help, but not for long. For me the positive I got out of it as that it would take my headache away within 20 mins or so. I hope you get answers soon.

xXxhugsxXx
Nichole