Mom

There has been a lot of things happening here since we moved in with Mom and Dad. The most important of which is the health of Mom. I wanted to clarify somethings and I think this is the fastest and best way to do it.

She has Chiari Syndrome which is the compression of the spinal column by the cerebral tonsils at the base of the brain. This causes pressure to build in the spinal column and the brain as the fluid is not moving thru the canal as it should. This has caused a cyst to grow in the spinal canal. She has also developed a slight compression of two or more vertebrae in the her neck.

One doctor says she needs decompression surgery on the brain to relieve the pressure and to allow the cyst to disolve. Another doctor says she needs decompression surgery on her neck to allow the same thing. Either way the surgery will be risky, as is any surgery. But again, until two or more doctors can determine which surgery is correct they will not be cutting on her.

She has some tingling in her arm and can hear the fluid as it moves in and out of the brain. However, this condition is not uncommon, as a matter of fact, I was diagnosed with Chiari syndrome several years ago. The problem is hereditary, most of the family may have it. The symptoms I have are migraines, vertigo (dizziness) and occasionally problems with vision or tingling in my arms and legs. Sometimes the problems can be controlled with medication, as mine are for now, other times, like Mom's, surgery is required.

For more information on Chiari syndrome, please search for it on Google, we have and find it most interesting. Please keep our family in your prayers as we go thru this most confusing and distressing time. I will try to keep you all posted in here as things progress. I will also be reachable by email at zehrfamily@msn.com.

God Bless Everyone!