Panic that it is returning:/

New to group…MVD surgery 6 months ago…mostly good days 3 months after surgery…no more meds at the moment…but past 2-3 days horrific pain back of head and upper neck…no drainage…1 pain med taken last might…much better today but uncomfortable feeling again on surgery side of face…see
Neurosurgeon again in July.
Haven’t had pain like that since post op period right after MVD.
No swelling or leakage…
Anxious! That round2 of TJN is coming back to get me…
Wondering it over exertion of physical work could have started something going again:( 2-3 yrs, of pain was more than enough) to last a life time) , and many un-necessary dental procedures…

Nelliemay there are three things here, the first, of course, is the pain - and that part can only really be addressed by yourself and your physician, but it might help your doctor if you try to more clearly define the nature of the pain (sharp, piercing, dull, aching or whatever), and also try to pinpoint the exact location where it starts from, so be alert to this things and make written notes for yourself and your doctor. Notice if the pain feels different in any way from the pain you used to have.

Then the possible triggers. Well, I believe they are many and varied, but it might help if you think about what you were doing when you felt the first twinges (and make a note of that too). Yes, I believe physical exertion can be a trigger, particularly if accompanied by stress - but I think everyone finds this different for themselves. I also think there doesn't need to be a trigger - it can just start up all on its own.

The panic is something that we all deal with. It's a fact of life for most of us in varying degrees. I believe that when you feel the first new pain is the WORST possible time to let your panic get out of control, as your stress level will escalate and possibly make the whole situation worse. Now is the time for some deep breathing, learn some relaxation techniques, let go of burdens and troubles (at least relax your stranglehold on them!), ask friends and family for help with things where possible, and make a CONSCIOUS effort to stay calm. Personally I go and take a lie down while practicing some meditation and breathing exercises, and that usually helps me, and I'll do that every day, sometimes twice a day, until I am sure that any new twinges have relaxed.

All the best.

Throbbing pain back of head around to both sides of head and same pain also where head and neck meet…also some slight, dull throbbing on L side where original TJN was. thanks for your response …I am going to try and relax more…do not want to go back on Lyrica…don’t like the side effects…
I am hoping this is just a very minor setback. Trying to stay positive :slight_smile:

In a lot of people, as we age the vertebra in the neck can compress (and over time you can visibly see your neck shorten) and cause a lot of pain in the area you describe. I suppose your pain could be unrelated to the TNJ and surgery, so that might be worth looking at. Since my last MVD I am conscious of fluid draining through my head and face through the neck lymphs (and can also see and feel the swellings on the side of the neck), and sometimes feel pressure in my head which I feel this causes. I find lying down for a minute on my back with my head tilted slightly back helps to relieve that pressure. I can actually feel the fluid draining. Good on staying positive! Easier said than done but we must all just try.

I am aware of the possible other issues but I have a feeling it isn’t them…Just going to try and calm myself and see if that helps some and not do any redecorating or anything strenuous, like that anymore…
I was wondering why your neurosurgeon has not fixed your “leak” or maybe it is your decision not to…
I appreciate u taking the time to to respond…I am sure I will be on this site until this “issue” of mine calms down more…fingers crossed…

I have not brought my further issues to my neuros attention. I think I'm done with surgeries, for now at least.

One day at a time...fingers crossed.

Even after 2 years of MVD I sometimes feel pressure and itching on the incision… And also I’m always afraid of TN coming back…I’m always feeling little pain and burning but very mild…uncomfortable yes…Dr said that is 'cause my nerve is a bit damage …had a vein wrapped so he had to cut to unwrapped it…and that is why sometimes feel pain and little sparks. But no biggie I can live with that… Ask your Dr what u had maybe there is your answer…good luck hang in there…and pray …pray…that this thing never comes back…

It sounds like your nerve is settling down. Please slow down. I was stress sensitive for 6 months. It may be the pain path ways are trying to re establish or your over doing it

Thanks :slight_smile:

Hi

Thoughts and prayers for you. Perhaps, like me you hit the ground running and this caused you a set back. Please relax and decrease your stress levels

~E

I had mine June 27th... almost 2 months. And my whole area back there has suddenly become very painful to the touch. My incision is completely healed and looks great, But I am concerned about a CSF leak... headaches are worse and neck is stiff... but no other symptoms.... just very very tender.