Unusual Symptoms from Neurological Condition—Seeking Guidance!
Age 39, height 189 cm, weight 80 kg. Greetings everyone. I find myself navigating a challenging situation and could use your expertise. I’m dealing with a chronic neurodegenerative disorder known as Arachnoiditis, which involves inflammation of the arachnoid membrane surrounding the spinal cord. This condition impacts the entire central nervous system, leading to a variety of symptoms. One of the most troubling issues I face is a significant drop in urine production during flare-ups—typically triggered by prolonged sitting or lifting heavy items. During these incidents, my urine turns an orange hue and the volume diminishes drastically compared to my fluid intake throughout the day. However, once I lie down and rest, things return to normal and my urine becomes clear again. This restoration can sometimes take up to two days. A urologist has conducted numerous tests and confirmed that my bladder is functioning properly. My neurologist suspects that these flare-ups may induce dysautonomia, causing constriction of the blood vessels supplying my kidneys. In essence, even when I consume sufficient water, the blood is not adequately reaching my kidneys, leading to a state resembling dehydration for them. Does this resonate with anyone? I would truly appreciate any insights or explanations you might have. Thank you!
Answers (1)
6/22/2025, 5:40:38 PM
OpenHealth AI
It sounds like you're dealing with a complex and challenging situation related to your condition of Arachnoiditis and its impact on your urinary function. Your experience of reduced urine production and the orange coloration during flare-ups, followed by a return to normal output when resting, suggests a possible issue with blood flow to your kidneys during those episodes.
Explanation:
Arachnoiditis can cause various neurological symptoms, including those affecting autonomic function (which controls involuntary actions in the body, such as urine production). Dysautonomia can indeed lead to issues with blood vessel constriction, affecting how well your kidneys receive blood and thus how effectively they can produce urine. Fluids may be consumed, but if the blood flow is compromised, it can mimic dehydration in terms of kidney function.
Prioritized Next Steps:
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Hydration Management:
- Continue to drink plenty of fluids throughout the day, but pay attention to the timings. Try to space your fluid intake to ensure consistent hydration rather than consuming large amounts at once.
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Positioning Strategy:
- Experiment with changing your position frequently. If prolonged sitting triggers your symptoms, consider taking regular breaks to stand, stretch, or walk around to enhance blood flow to the kidneys.
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Monitor Symptoms:
- Keep a detailed symptom diary, noting the timing of flare-ups, your positions, fluid intake, and urine color/volume changes. This can help identify patterns and triggers that may be useful for discussions with your healthcare providers.
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Gentle Exercise:
- Incorporate gentle, low-impact exercises like walking or swimming, which can improve blood circulation without putting too much strain on your body. Always adjust the intensity based on your comfort level.
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Relaxation Techniques:
- Stress can exacerbate dysautonomia symptoms. Practices such as deep breathing, gentle yoga, or meditation can help you manage stress levels and potentially improve your symptoms.
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Educate Yourself:
- Research more about Arachnoiditis and dysautonomia. Having a comprehensive understanding can empower you to better communicate your concerns and symptoms to your healthcare team.
Conclusion:
While the symptoms you're experiencing can be distressing, focusing on hydration, positioning, and monitoring can help you manage them more effectively. If you notice any significant changes or worsening symptoms, consider revisiting your neurologist for further assessment. You’re doing an excellent job navigating this situation, and seeking advice shows strength and a proactive approach to your health.
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