New to Forum, Arnold Chiari with new symptoms
 

Hello! I am 33 years old and was diagnosed with Arnold Chiari Malformation type I in 2008. It was an accidental finding from experiencing a grand mal seizure on Christmas day in 2008. I forgot how much the herniation is but I do remember the neurologist said that it wasn't much. I was born with mine but have always had the symptoms. My symptoms were migraines, ringing in the ears, clumsiness, numbing, and dizziness. I have been fine with the symptoms until late last year cause they were bearable. I started experiencing extreme fatigue even though I am the healthiest and the fittest I have ever been in my life especially after having my 3 wonderful kids. Lost 20 lbs and went down 4 sizes on my clothes. My pulmonologist ordered a nightime and daytime sleep study. Both confirmed that I have a mild sleep apnea with severe idiopathic hypersomnelence (daytime sleepiness). Was put on ritalin short release and long release for my sleepiness. A few months ago, I started experiencing a lump in my throat. I waited for about a month to tell my doc. Was referred to a GI doc and performed an upper GI endoscopy last friday. They dilated my esophagus and took a biopsy. Was told that everything looked normal but may have acid reflux. Was put on Nexium for the reflux. This monday I started experiencing something new. I ate breakfast in the morning as always, but as I ate and swallowed my food, I experienced severe pain in my chest and down my esophagus. Since then, anything I eat or drink (besides water) I experience the pain, stomach pain, burping and gas (sorry for the bluntness). Told my GI doc and today they performed an upper GI xrays with barium. Was told by the radiologist that no tear was found in my esophagus but possible esophageal spasm. Now, I await for a follow up with my GI. Next month, I have my follow up with my neurologist to talk about my GI problems and possible new MRI with contrast. I have come to the point where I am discouraged and just want to give up. I know that the pain from eating and drinking is not in my head or the lump in my throat. But, nothing was found. Is it just me? Please help!

I experience muscle spasms. I carry Hyland's Leg Cramps PM with me wherever I go. It has magnesium and quinine in it, which definitely helps with the spasms--which are not in my legs LOL! Check with your doctor or pharmacist to make sure there wouldn't be any drug interactions with anything you may be taking currently.