New to the group

[Guest guest]

Howdy all! My name is Jan. Although I was originally diagnosed in 1989, it has

not been confirmed that my symptoms were ever related until about a month ago. I

have ACM Type I, no syrinx. I've had flareups throughout the years which

fortunately have cooled down. With the exception of one other episode, none of

those episodes were of this magnitude.

I have always had ringing in both ears throughout my life. In fact, I thought it

was normal to have some degree of " head noises " until someone told me that most

people don't and that it's called tinnitus resulting from nerve damage. Well my

ringing gets worse with the intensity of headaches.

I have always had difficulty turning my neck; been more easily susceptible to

neck strains; occipital head pain; clumsiness which worsened over time,

especially with latest flareup; and a host of Chiari-like symptoms but

intermittently with increased head pain/pressure.

Thanks to these sites I noticed that people get relief with the use of

diuretics. I've had an ongoing severe pain for months and after reading a

message about diuretics, one I recognized, " Lasix " , I was able to find some much

needed relief. Symptoms are not all gone but have been brought to a more

tolerable level. I still can't lift much or other strenuous activities without

exacerbating my headaches. Driving for long periods of time causes pain.

My medication regimen includes Neurontin 600 mg/day and Tramadol as needed. Does

anyone know if the use of Lasix will interfere with either of these meds? (Lasix

was prescribed for something I no longer have, not the Chiari.) Also does anyone

know of a Chiari specialist in Texas, Dallas or Houston area? Have car will

travel...lol.

I joined a few weeks ago and thought I should take a moment to introduce myself

and say hello. I hope everyone finds some much needed relief.