Confused and Worried

[Hunny_23]

I have been diagnosed with Pseudo Tumor Cerebi roughly 2 years ago (due to my weight and being on bith control). I had an MRI (which was normal) and a spinal tap(which they said was in the higher, normal range). I was prescribed Diamox 500mg. They worked wonders (but the manufacturer has since discontinued Diamox in Canada). Since then I have changed specialists. The Doctor I am seeing now, seemed a bit hesitant that I do actually have this condition. She has not scheduled any tests, other than a field vision, which I have done 3 times. It showed that my left eye is the worst. I was put on Acetazolamide 250mg. It took my body a long time to adjust to the amount I was taking in one day. I'm now taking them 5 times a day, and feel that they aren't doing much to help me.
The past few days I have felt very tired, can't think straight and have had reoccurring migraines that range in intensity. I am worried that these migraines are part of this condition. That is how it all started for me, I was very sensitive to light and could hear swishing in my ears that wouldn't go away. I don't get the swishing anymore (thank goodness)

I am so confused. The medications aren't working much and have been getting migraines. Also, when the new specialist seemed doubtful that I have this condition. Could it actually be something else?

Please Help!
I am lost.

Thank you,

Tracy

[Dr. Sinuhe]

Dear Tracey,

your question has been answered, the link to the answer is here:
http://askdoctorjoshua.com/2006/12/04/pseudotumor-cerebri-symptoms-of-elevated-intracranial-pressure/

Dr Sinuhe

[Hunny_23]

Thank you for answering so quickly. :)

My migraines have gone away now. I still get a few days were my left side of my neck and shoulder are sore. But I am doing much better without having to deal with the headaches.

I was told by my specialsit that once I lose the weight the condition will go away. Is that true? I'm finding it hard to lose weight. I seem to be bouncing around and can't seem to get lower. I am currently at 217lbs. I am 23 years old. I have been dealing with my weight since as long as I can remember. I have joined Curves, which does seem to help me with the support that I need. I know that I don't overeat. I eat way less than my fiance. (he's at 170lbs). He's always told me that, and I believe him.

I have joined a group on Yahoo! for the condition and have been posting there for a few months now. People have said that shunts help them. How do they work? Would I need to get another spinal tap done first to see how high the pressure is? How is the decision made to have a shunt put in? My specialist has not mentioned anything of the sorts to me. She told me that she is happy that I am losing weight and to do this slowly as I would have a way better chance at keeping the weight off.( which I agree to, but still worried about the whole vision aspect)

I get worried almost everyday about my vision. I keep thinking how I have messed up my life, and the old question 'why me?'. (the first doctor I went to told me that it was due to my weight,taking the birth control pill and am a light smoker) I can't visualize myself being totally blind in my left eye. It scares me to death. I want a family of my own. We plan on getting married soon. I'm worried that if I get pregnant that my child will have to go through the same thing. Would there be a possibility of that ??? Or that my pregnancy will be difficult do to the condition.

-Tracy- 8)