Finally got to see the migraine specialist at Stanford. After a lengthly interview and a few basic tests I have a diagnosis. The visual grid that I see is called persistent visual aura (PVA) it is rare and difficult to treat (of course it is). The suggestion is a medication used to improve memory in Alzheimer’s patients.
The daily headaches are caused by trigeminal autonomic cephalalgias and the treatment is 15 minutes of oxygen therapy when I feel a headache coming on, and continue this until it subsides.
He did say that both are a result of my clipping surgery four years ago. Before starting treatments I will meet with my PCP who has been the voice of reason throughout this tangled journey.
It is nice to finally have a diagnosis.
Wishing peace and health to all,
Laura
Hi Laura...and so the Journey continues...I am sorry about your diagnosis, but I do hope now that Specialist knows you will be treated accordingly...Thank you for updating us...I learn so much from your posts...Wishing you a beautiful Saturday ~ Colleen
Thank you Colleen. I believe there should be more information given to aneurysm surgery patients prior to surgery on what are possible complications after surgery. They tell you about the big stuff like stroke and death but nothing about all of the other “stuff” that can happen. Not that it would change the treatment decision, but it might alleviate some of the pain and suffering one goes through trying to find a diagnosis.
That is my rant for the day, thank you very much.
Laura I so agree...I wasn't even told about stroke or possible death...only told I could have migraines and/or bad headaches for about 6 months...and I ended up with so many complications and life support...Like you, it wouldn't have changed the decision, but we would know what to possibly expect or like you maybe we would know the right Doctors to go to when we start having ill effects...
Hahaha...now me ranting...this hits a nerve with me too...
I think we should write an aneurysm patients handbook. I mentioned this to my doctor after surgery and he looked at me like I was from another planet.