posted 04-21-2002 01:19 PM            

However, recently I saw a neurologist because I had blackouts while driving (resulting in accidents) and I developed a tremor, primarily in my left side. As a preventative measure he put me on Dilantin, which seemed to alleviate the tremors, and I haven't had any more blackouts.

The neurologist also ordered an MRI, and discovered that I have a cyst in my brain which is causing the constant headaches. He also said that if it swells, it can cause the blackouts and passing out. Now he wants me to talk to a neurosurgeon and see what they recommend - either doing nothing but keep watch over it; surgery to remove it; or insert a shunt and thread it down my neck and into my stomach. He also put me on Depakote for the headaches.

Oh, and let's add the pinched nerve in my elbow, which may lead to surgery to relocate the nerve.

Frankly, the thought of surgery, especially brain surgery, scares the heck out of me. I don't know what to think at this point. What am I seeking here? I don't know - support, knowledge, help. Also, definitions: What is the difference between a brain cyst and a tumor? Or are the terms interchangeable?

Any advice is appreciated.

posted 04-24-2002 03:55 PM            

FWIW, I'm 36YO. Most of my doctors in the past would do nothing for the headaches - the most any of them did was put me on Wygesic (an HMO doc from about 10 years ago), which alleviated the pain, but never really investigated as to why I was having them. It wasn't until I developed the tremor and had the blackouts that my current doc (who I'm really not happy with at the moment) referred me to a neurologist, who now wants me to see a neurosurgeon for their opinion.

I can tolerate the Dilantin well, but the Depakote is giving me nausea. I'd much rather he put me on the occasional Wygesic or another painkiller, but I don't want to appear to be a "drug seeker." (I've mentioned this on the Headaches board as well).

As for my official diagnosis it is: Colloid cyst of the 3rd ventricle resulting in mild ventriculomegaly without evidence of trans ependymal migration of cerebral spinal fluid. Also says something about a 1cm mass associated with T1 shortening, and enlarged lateral ventricles. It's all Greek to me...8-)

I've made an appointment with a neurosurgeon, but the earliest they can get me in is May 20. Until then I live with the pain and worrying, unless I can find another who can get me in before then.

Thanks for bearing with me.