Spinal Tap

Here I am, just chilling in my bed, waiting for the spinal tap-induced headache to dissipate (think I'll watch "This is Spinal Tap" to continue with the day's theme...ha~ha!). The doctor instructed, "lay flat and give it a couple hours; no activity today." Wise advice. Any upright movement immediately increases pressure on my brain and invites an intense pain I have not experienced in three decades.

The last lumbar puncture I had was in conjunction with a myelogram, and both were performed with highly archaic flair. I swore I'd never do it again. But advances in technology made this go-around more comfortable. I was even able to crack a few jokes during the procedure. And through the course of conversation with medical staff, I now have "Wayne's World! Wayne's World!" tapping my brain.

I'm not sure which pain in the brain is more unbearable...

My MS Odyssey

I survived another wild launch into a 3T MRI machine, only to return in T minus two hours (and some loose minutes).

Tight spaces, such as that of a tubular MRI machine, are usually no bother to me. But when a bulky face mask is required as part of the apparatus for stabilization during testing in that confined space, my heartbeat skyrockets at a rapid pace. No amount of consolation to myself--taking deep, oxygenated breaths or calmly reminding myself that I AM a super hero--stops panic from over-riding relaxation within the initial five minutes. Hence, it has become prudent for the neurologist to prescribe a generous dose of Xanax to sustain me during the 2-hour imaging procedure.

This week was no different. The little blue pill temporarily became my best friend, my saving grace, as I prepared to enter the cold, loud imaging shuttle.

Fortunately, I had friendly technicians who successfully inserted my IV on first attempt, surrounded my ears with familiar sounds of classic 80's rock, secured my arms against the machine walls with cozy padding, and covered my body in a toasty warm blankie. The only thing missing was a pink binky.

Somewhere around the midway point I briefly dozed off, startled myself with a quick jolt, then apologized for the unnecessary snort. I was assured it did nothing to hinder the images, thankfully. Once ejected from the dark abyss, back into reality, my stomach demanded a Smashburger combo, which I nearly inhaled from starvation.

Later, the neurologist and I reviewed my updated MRI report. Although my spinal cord looks good, more "spots" exposed themselves on my brain: a couple of them appear consistent with severe migraine, while yet another is of major concern to Multiple Sclerosis.

Progression in time and space warrant the scheduling of another spinal tap, a procedure which, the first time, bruised my entire lumbar spine and twisted my dreams into nightmares. I am somewhat hesitant to do it again (especially since I have to refrain from taking any pain relievers), but understand the necessity for it.

As with all things, I will embrace the obstacles life encounters and enjoy the ride along my own personal MS odyssey...