About Connie Fowler Expertise I can help with questions on Chiari malformation and related disorders like ADHD, Hidden learning disorder, Autisms, Tethered cord syndrome, Pseudo-Tumor, Spina bifida, Syringomyelia, Hydrocephalus, I went four years with not getting proper help for my son with Education and Medical issues. The Chiari type I malformation is a rare, neuromuscular deformity at which most Neurosurgeons believe it is present at birth. The brain exists in a cavity surrounded by bone. The brainstem normally sits in a funnel-like cavity just above the spinal cord. The problem occurs when the posterior fossa is not developed properly. Instead of the brainstem sitting in its proper space, the brainstem is pushed downward through the skull, causing pressure on the cerebellum and spinal cord
Another concerns is the normal flow of CSF through this area because the cerebellum are pushed into the opening of the base of the skull meeting the spine can cause obstruction to its natural flow.
(This downward displacement of the cerebellar tonsils is called the Chiari malformation.)
Experience December 2000 my son went in for brain decompression his Filum released (Tethered cord syndrome) as these are not a done deal surgery and we have years of doctor appointment and possible more surgery's, my heart and soul is in the understanding and research of this condition that the Doctor said my son was born with, as I am finding out this can be a genetic disorder as my self I have been diagnosed with Chiari and my oldest son has Scoliosis which is a sign of Chiari malformation.Because this is a rare disorder not to many people know of it or understand the disability that can come with it if left untreated, this is my goal to bring more awareness and be a support to those who have been told they too may have Chiari Malformation.
Organizations The Organization that I belong to is Our Chiari kids, Keeping kids healthy, Child care network,
Education/Credentials Basic child care resource, Child developement, Child Behavior,
Reaching to new heights in the research of chiari Malformation.
http://icanlearn.homestead.com/monkeynoseenodo.html
Question I suffered from epilepsy for 10 years and was on tegretol, i have since been off the meds for 9 years and have not had a seizure, however i do often get the feelings like i am going to have one also headaches its like i know the feeling because i have had one before it worries me , i also tend to buzz out u know like stare and often have poor short memory. my question is, could i still have epilepsy and could it affect the way i think and make decisions? and what about drinking i mean im not on meds but can having epilepsy and drinking affect my judgements, i really need to get to the bottom of this as it is tearing my life apart please write back soon thank u very much
Answer Hi Daniel
The issue of epilepsy and alcohol consumption can be very confusing. .
In small to moderate amounts, alcohol actually has properties to counteract seizures, but it should never be consumed in the hope of controlling seizures.
Alcohol does not often provoke seizures while the person is drinking but it may cause (withdrawal)seizures 6 to 72 hours later, after drinking has stopped.
Withdrawal seizures are most common among persons who have abused alcohol for years. When alcohol consumption is stopped suddenly or is markedly reduced over a short period of time, a seizure may occur. This is what some call provoked seizures rather than true epilepsy.
Years of alcohol abuse can increase a person's risk of developing epilepsy.
My best advice for you is to see your doctor about this issue and find what is best for you. Rather is alcohl is causeing the effects or something else.
Best regards Mrs Fowler
