Hi Linda,
The TN started first in 2008. The first Neurologist I saw was very dismissive and said as my MRI was clear there wasn’t anything he could do to help apart from medication.
I requested a second opinion and I was so fortunate to see a much more understanding Neurologist who immediately picked up on the longer than usual TN zaps, tingling in my left arm and leg, and dizziness. After many tests I was diagnosed with the AVM in May 2011.
When I first saw Mr Kitchen he pointed out the first MRI and said the AVM was clearly visible. You can imagine how angry and upset I was on hearing that.