Quick update

[Literophile]

I think I finally have some insight as to what's causing most of my symptoms. There is a lot of evidence that I have a tumor on my pituitary gland. When I had an MRI done to see if they could find abnormalities that might cause seizures, the only abnormality they found was an enlarged pituitary gland. A tumor on the pituitary gland can cause psychosis (thus the NESs), headaches (thus the almost constant pain in my head), seizures (thus the... well, seizures), along with many of the physical symptoms I have. So, uh... yay?

Some good news, though: I'm fairly convinced Tegretol is working for me. On Monday, I had a seizure at yoga class triggered by getting overheated and hyperventilation, but instead of being fully aware the whole time (which is awful for those of you who have never had that) I wasn't. It was much easier on me. The last thing I remember before it it starting a Sun Salutation and then when I came to, they were in the middle of the Tree pose. Sis was there and she said it happened at the end of our third Sun Salutation.

I still have many tests to do before I can get a completely firm diagnosis (another MRI, a gajillion blood tests, and many other uncomfortable tests). I'm praying I'm wrong.

[Nakamova]

I'm praying you're wrong too. If it does turn out to be a tumor, I hope it's benign and very treatable. In the meantime, I'm glad the Tegretol seems to be helping. Keep us posted -- the tests don't sound fun, so make sure to come here to de-stress...

[Meetz1064]

I feel the same way as Nak. I hope it's not a tumor, but IF it is, let it be benign.

I'm sending my thoughts and prayers your way.

As for the tests........you'll make it through them, I promise.

[Endless]

Literophile,

Your possible diagnosis would sure explain a lot. I'm so sorry about the possible tumor, but so glad you are finally getting some answers.

I've been reading that almost always the tumors are benign. (not cancerous)
http://neurosurgery.ucla.edu/body.cf...&action=detail

Not all of them require surgery to remove. There are other treatments. But.... One of my friends had surgery to remove a pituitary tumor. They went through her nose to do it, so her skull is fine and there's no scar. And it's much faster to heal doing it that way. She didn't feel dizzy or sick, just really tired. She had some pain, but it wasn't too bad. The first few days she used the mega-drugs, then after that just tylanol.

The tumor was benign, and she had her first period in 3 years a month or so later. (they had ceased) She also lost a ton of weight and looked really good! And, her headaches were gone. Pretty good stuff. The tumor has never come back. Permanent solution.

One million big hugs to you. Getting a good diagnosis is 80% of the battle. Please, please let us know how you are doing every day, okay?

[Literophile]

Thanks all!

@Nak Thanks, I always love coming here to blow off some steam with you wonderful people.

@Meetz Thanks, I'll take all I can get

@Endless Thanks for the information! I've heard most pituitary tumors are benign, but I didn't know they could go through your nose to do surgery... sounds like mummification! XD And thanks for the info on your friend's process. That makes me feel a million times better.

I will try and keep you updated as often as I can. Hugs to all of you!

[Rae1889]

Lol mummification. I've put it in my "will" that that's how I wanna be buried. No joke. I think it'd ve coolz$.

Sotty to hera aout your possible tumour though. I know it soundd bed but let's hipe it is a tumor and it begnihn and when they remove you don't evr hsve anothe seixure ahain! Yay!

[Literophile]

I... I should put that in my will. That sounds absolutely amazing. Do people do that anymore though? Where would you go to have your loved one mummified...?

EDIT: I don't know for sure if I actually do have a tumor.