Chiari and VSG

[HarlemSleeve 3]

4 years ago I was diagnosed with a brain disorder, Chiari Malformation. Chairi Malformation is when the bottom of your brain descends from the skull and into the spinal canal. If you know anything about the human body, you understand that there isn't any room for the brain in the spinal canal. Needless to say, I had a serious issue on my hand which included symptoms such as terrible headaches, trouble swallowing, muscle fasciculation, numbness in my hands and feet, and a host of other issues. There isn' a cure for the disorder however; brain surgery in some patients is an option to help manage the condition. I had brain surgery in August of 2011. My symptoms improved and I have managed the condition with much success since then-that is until about 8/9 months ago.

One thing I have learned with the brain disorder is the affect weight and BMI play in my ability to control the condition. I experienced less symptoms when I weighed less. However, I had issues as my weight increased. The catch 22 here is: A healthy BMI/Weight allows you to manage your symptoms, but having Chiari makes it difficult to lose and maintain a healthy BMI/Weight. What is a girl to do?

After long consideration and deciding another brain surgery was not an option, I had VSG surgery July 2nd. The idea is that the rapid reduction in weight will allow me to regain control of the disorder.

Well, I have lost 24.9lbs in about a month (June 14th (pre-op diet) until July 10th). I am happy to report I can tell a difference already. It rained here in NYC and I didn't have a headache or facial pain. That may not seem like a lot to some folks, but for me, it is life changing! I am glad I made the decision to have the surgery and am hopeful for the future.

[Jane78 0]

I too have chiari and had decompression surgery 12 years ago when I was 25 years old. I gained 70 pounds since in that time frame and had VSG surgery on June 22. My chiari symptoms were severe dizziness, horrible Migraines, and some body numbness. I am grateful the surgery helped tremendously; I've heard some people aren't that fortunate. Nice to see a fellow chiari warrior on here!! ????