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A Quick Health Update

July 22, 2017

I just wanted to update everyone who read my blog post last week. Everyone’s kind messages have been so lovely and very much appreciated. When rubbish things happen knowing people care really does help. I’ll start from where I left off in my last post.

It took me a few days to fully calm down and get over the shock of Fridays events. Even though I’d had a good outcome from the CT scan, I was so shocked by everything. Luckily my friends and family were absolutely amazing and really looked after me. Although I was so glad that nothing really scary and urgent was wrong, I was still dealing with my head and eyes feeling awful and not knowing what the actual problem was.

On Wednesday I got a call to say I was booked in for an MRI that afternoon. I was really glad to know that I was a step closer to getting some answers. Luckily I wasn’t feeling very nervous about the MRI, as I’m Ok with small spaces. It was pretty noisy and went on for quite a long time, but luckily I found it bearable.

On Friday I went back to the eye department for my first follow up appointment. I ended up having to wait for two hours past my original appointment time, which wasn’t great but I knew all the department dealt with emergencies and having been in that position myself the week before I didn’t mind waiting too much.

The doctor read through my notes and got up the results from my MRI, luckily it had  also come back clear of anything scary, which was a big relief. He then looked at my eyes again. He then explained that I probably have a condition called Idiopathic Intracranial Hypertension, which basically means pressure in the fluid that surrounds the brain. This explains the pressure on my optic nerves and the bad headaches. Obviously I wish there was nothing wrong with me, but this is still better than some of the original possibilities.

I am being referred to a neurologist for further treatment and a definitive diagnosis. I was told this would probably include lumbar puncture, which I am absolutely terrified of. I know I’m going to need to be brave and deal with what lies ahead, but I’d be lying if I said I wasn’t scared and upset about it all.

Luckily I’ve already got used to dealing with my symptoms and have definitely got used to pacing myself, getting enough rest and keeping the headaches under control. I am also looking into food and exercise that will help. I’m definitely ready to face this head on. My lovely husband Rob is being amazing and really looking after me, which makes everything far easier.

I’m not sure if I’m going to continue to post updates about this, as I don’t really know if this is the right place for it. I also want to carry on as normal as much as possible. I also have loads of lovely half finished blog posts that I’ll be working on when I feel up to it, so it will mostly go back to being about tea, books, pretty dresses and fun things.

  • Reply
    Porcelina
    July 22, 2017 at 6:16 pm

    Thanks for updating us Catherine – you’ve been in my thoughts. I’m glad that you’re being well looked after by your husband. Take care of yourself xx

  • Reply
    Donna Watson
    July 22, 2017 at 9:12 pm

    Thank you for letting us know how you are. I wish you lots of luck with the neurologist xx

  • Reply
    Miss Magpie
    July 23, 2017 at 11:28 am

    Thank you for updating because I have been thinking of you. I’m so glad the scan was clear and fingers crossed for a speedy diagnosis and recovery plan. Keep looking after yourself & don’t try to do too much.

  • Reply
    Mim (@crinolinerobot)
    July 24, 2017 at 7:52 am

    I saw your update on Twitter, but wanted to leave a note here as there’s not much room to chat on Twitter! It is good that they know what the problem is, and I hope they’re able to get it sorted out quickly and easily. Rob sounds like he’s being an absolute star too. Best wishes to both of you.

  • Reply
    Kimberly Olivas
    July 24, 2017 at 4:00 pm

    Thank you for the update. I will keep you in my prayers. Please keep us posted. . We all love and care about you. .

  • Reply
    Anna
    July 30, 2017 at 9:20 pm

    I’m glad that you have a diagnosis and, presumably a treatment plan. That takes a lot of the fear away. The nurses who are with you will know that treatment can be frightening and painful and will do everything they can to alleviate both.

    Do keep us updated, even if you don’t feel this is the place, a quick sentence to say you’re doing well will suffice.

  • Reply
    Karen
    July 31, 2017 at 12:16 pm

    Thanks for updating us. It’s a relief that it’s all under control and we all hope that it we be resolved quickly. Kx

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