Aneurysms Support Group
An aneurysm (or aneurism) is localized, blood-filled dilation (bulge) of a blood vessel caused by disease or weakening of the vessel wall. Aneurysms most commonly occur in arteries at the base of the brain and in the aorta - this is an aortic aneurysm. This bulge in a blood vessel can burst and lead to death at any time.
Hello everyone, I see very little activity in this group, and that's a real shame. People like me who are new and looking for some sort of support are looking for help in this group. People who have been in the group a long time have a lot of "experience" to offer. I realize every circumstance is different, and everyone will not have the same diagnosis or prognosis, but just being able to talk about what's going on can be a real stress relief. Those of you who have been here for a while offer hope, just by being around. :)
One of the first things I did when I found out about my aneurysm was to try to find a support group. I know my family doesn't really know what it feels like, and that's ok. I just hoped I could find a group to discuss my questions and concerns with. People who are in a like situation or that have been in a similar situation. I don't want to scare my family with my questions or concerns. I want them to enjoy their time with me without fear. Some of my questions may be irrevellant, but I really hoped to get support through this group.
For example:
How long was it before you were diagnosed before you had corrective surgery?
What questions should you ask your cardiologist?
What questions should you ask your surgeon?
What types of tests should I expect before surgery?
Do most people experience any side effects or negative reaction(s) to the tests?
What should you take to the hospital with you when you have surgery?
Those aren't personal questions, those are questions that could help someone get good answers.
So, if you're still in the group, why not start commenting or sharing parts of your story?
You never know where life will take you. You never know the impact you may have on another person's life.
I truly hope everyone is well. Make it an amazing day! Deb
I saw my neurologist who sent me to an ENT where they conducted tests. I have a little hearing loss and no balance whatsoever. Also, I had something weird going on with my eyes. He prescribed me a diuretic, which did not alieviate the symptoms so he ruled out Meniere's Disease.
I saw my neurologist a few days later and he told me it was probably physchiatric. I went to my psychiatrist who had no idea why I was there. The symptoms were obviously neurological.
I returned to the ER a second time one night for vertigo. I can't stop vomiting, I'm dizzy, I can't speak, etc. I'm treated for a "headache" and released.
I got a second opinion from another ENT, but she agreed with the first.
I begged for imaging from my neurologist. By this time it's like April or March, I have totally lost time and have to write everything down. My neurologist orders an MRI without contrast. Nothing is found. Great, I am crazy.
I went to physical therapy. For absolutely nothing.
The second ENT recommended a second neurological opinion and gave me the name of a friend she had consulted about my case. I called to set up an appointment and it turns out that this new neurologist works in the same office as my old neurologist. I was told that I was no longer welcome at that office.
I called the second ENT twice and left messages with no reply. Out of the blue, my neurologist prescribes Gabapentin. No consultation or phone call. Just a notification on my cell from Walgreens that my prescription is ready. The neurologist kept insisting it was Meniere's. Now, no one will return my phone calls except my psychiatrist and psychologist who believe my neurologist is unethical in his practice.
I search the web for neurologists, this time, I read all the medical reviews I can find and I find an awesome neurologist. She sees me right away, orders an MRI with and without contrast and an MRA. Results show an aneurysm and something in the white matter of my right frontal lobe. She then sends me for a head CAT scan and I'm scheduled for a lumbar puncture on Monday.
I'm so angry. I haven't worked since February 2nd. Thankfully I purchased long term disability with my employer when I started almost nine years ago.
Let us know how you make out.
https://forum.stopafib.org/
But what is DONE about this defect, that is likely inherited? I never see anything except take aspirin, keep cholesterol in check, and get exercise and eat right. Really? This is supposed to really predispose us for STROKE. And this is all we hear? Take aspirin??? Come ON. I know i'm considered elderly now but are we to be cast aside after 50 or something? I'm betting babies would get surgeries to correct this congenital 'defect.'