Kimb
I can totally understand your fear!!!! I too suffer severe headaches and have actaully been diagnosed with complicated migraines. "complicated" means that my signs and symptoms surrounding my migraines resemble stroke and actually raise my risk of stroke. I have MRI's frequently. They started a few years ago and when brain leasons were found I went off in search of several opinions. At first I was diagnosed with everything from MS to Lupus. But, in fact, they are scars from the migraines and the strokes I have had from them. I also have a few cysts. I too, was VERY concerend about them!!!! Just the mere fact that they were mentioned in the report told me that there was a reason for concern. But I have seen at least 10 doctors, some of them considered the best in the country and all say the cysts are nothing to worry about. If you look at your MRI report it should actually say "incidental ________ cyst". Meaning they just happened to see it. If you have another MRI, try to go to the same place or bring your old films with you. The Radiologist will check to see if it has gotten bigger or changed in any way. They CAN tell the differance between a cyst and a tumor!!! If you have your films take a look at them. Remember that an MRI is a negative so it is Opposite of what you think it should be. The parts that glow bright white are the problems area's. Your cyst will be very bright white on the film. It should also be very circular in shape. A tumor, on the other hand, would have uneven edges. MY lesions are circular but not as bright white because they are not fluid filled. They are scar tissue. I KNOW it is hard, but try not to worry!!!!!!! If your headaches continue they will re-do the MRI in about 6 months. If you have any sudden changes in symptoms tell your doctor ASAP!!! Keep a journal! I have found that many foods, especially those high in sulfites like Hot Dogs and Red wines cause tremendous pain! IN your journal note what you ate, what time your headache began. What you took for it and how long it took to work. Note any "aura's" such as odd ordors or funny lights. Keep track of it ALL!!! This will really help your doctor come up with a plan to help releive your headaches and determine what the best medication is for you. Try not to be discouraged if the first medication doesn't work. I went through several before I found one that actually helps!! Several that I had to try for months before I could determine if they wouldn't work. Headaches are a difficult thing. Even the best neurologists, if they are honest with you, will tell you that they know less than 5% there is to know about the brain. Good Luck! Kimb