Ryoko Yonekura prepares for retirement due to cerebrospinal fluid hypovolemia: "I can't walk straight, I can't stand up"

 

Actor Ryoko Yonekura (photographed by Ryosuke Kawaguchi

Actor Ryoko Yonekura (48) appeared on the NHK information program "Asaichi" on the morning of the 14th, and looked back on her five-year struggle with the incurable disease cerebrospinal fluid hypovolemia. Yonekura said, "I can't walk straight, I can't stand up. It feels like I'm walking on a stopped escalator forever," and revealed that at one point she was prepared to retire. What kind of disease is cerebrospinal fluid hypovolemia?

Cerebrospinal fluid hypovolemia is also known as low cerebrospinal fluid pressure syndrome. When the cerebrospinal fluid that protects the brain and spinal cord leaks due to the impact of a traffic accident, fall, or strenuous exercise, it can cause headaches, dizziness, memory loss, sleep disorders, and fatigue. Like Yonekura, some people may become unable to stand or become bedridden. 

The most common treatment is a technique called a "blood patch," in which the patient's own blood is injected into the epidural space in the lumbar spine to plug the hole through which cerebrospinal fluid leaks. This treatment is also covered by public health insurance.

However, because the disease is not well known and there are few specialists, it often takes time to find out the correct name of the disease even if you feel unwell. Yonekura also said on the program that although she had a brain scan before the onset of symptoms, "it takes time to realize you have the disease."

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