If you’ve clicked the tab but don’t know what a CSF leak is? Well you’re probably in the wrong place. This is a page dedicated to healing a spinal fluid leak.
My last blood patch to date was 6/21/14 at Duke University. However, as of late September 2014 symptoms of my leak returned. In a rare twist of fate I have been introduced to several supplements and healing modalities that have allowed me to live a better quality of life.
Zyflamend – This product is nothing short of amazing. It is a whole food (organic, non-gmo) supplement featuring well known anti inflammatories such as curcumin. It takes about 7-10 of taking the product every day before I start to feel better. But I do notice that it reduces inflammation not only for the disc injuries in my neck and back but more importantly I believe it is helping with inflammation in my brain. I can’t explain it but these are the things that improve with daily use (and decline rapidly within missing two days of pills).
- Cognitive delays & confusion
- headaches rated 7+
- vision problems
- tinnitus
- popping in my ears
Omegas – I also always take an omega oil supplement for brain support. Something like this.
Cal-Amo – This is a supplement that was recommended to me by my acupuncturist to increase the volume of csf. When I was really, really bad (pain level 10, couldn’t stand for 5 minutes) I took 3 at a time, 3 x per day. Now, I take 2 per day total. Please use common sense. I am not a doctor and cannot give you dosages, but I do know that when it was bad, this nearly saved my life.
Diet – I don’t eat gluten, dairy, or nightshades (potatoes and tomatoes). Drastic I know. But both gluten and nightshades are known inflammatories. When trying to regain control in a storm you may consider removing these items for a week or two and pay attention to your symptoms.
- Interested in learning more about food sensitivities? You can get your IGG Food Sensitivity test yourself HERE for about $219. Here is a list of testing options and prices.
Meditation – Don’t skip this section! Meditation has been proven to help with pain for centuries. Most people admit they simply don’t know how, or don’t know where to start. Meditation is simply the practice of quieting and focusing your mind. It doesn’t have to be part of a spiritual practice (although it can) it doesn’t have to be done any one way. But I have been surprisingly able to work myself from level 9 pain to level 6 pain through meditation and focus. Try several styles and see what works for you. I will list several links to get you started. Try to put on headphones and find a quiet space for 10-20 minutes. Or even 5. Commit to a meditation practice for a minimum of 7 consecutive days to begin to see the magic. Serious about stopping your pain? Commit for 21 days.
- Gabby Bernstein intro to meditation for healing ** definitely watch this first if you’re a first timer**
- Doreen Virtue hosts a non denominational angel meditation with visualization.
- Deepak guided Healing Meditation
- Wayne Dyer, I Am meditation
- Tibetan Singing Bowls are wonderful for a peaceful simple meditation without distraction
- Check out YouTube to find your own favorites!
Tapping – The art of EFT (otherwise known as tapping) for pain relief is surprisingly effective. I can’t explain it, but I can tell you that I do it, and it works miraculously. I highly encourage you to watch this short 7 minute video for a basic understanding of the process. Here is another instructional video by Gabby Bernstein. Give it a chance.
Gratitude Journal – I highly recommend getting a small notebook you can carry along with you and make it a point to write 5 gratitude statements every day. Depression is no joke and you don’t want to let it anywhere near you. Stay on top of it with daily gratitude and appreciation. And yes, writing makes a difference! Commit to try it for 30 days and notice the change in mindset.
Most of all, be patient with yourself. Don’t try to do what you did pre-leak. Don’t try to be who you were pre-leak. But in the absence of constant blood patches and surgeries and… well Hell quite frankly. These tools will help increase the appreciation and joy with your current quality of life.
* I receive a small commission from some of the links on this site to help support the cost of this blog. As usual people, I’m not a doctor, please use common sense when altering a protocol and speak to your doctor with any questions or concerns. These suggestions are not an alternative to traditional medical treatment.
Sunshine 