posted on August 27, 2008 03:38:29 PM new
That is what was called out Monday afternoon, as they raced down the hallway of the hospital with me as a reluctant passenger on the gurney.
Earlier, I had just left the hospital after having scans performed on my carotid arteries. We drove a few blocks when I had what ultimately was determined to be a TIA. My wife turned th car around and drove directly to the ER of the same hospital.
While she parked the car, I walked to the front counter, plopped my insurance card on the counter and announced that I was having a stroke. An aide passing by, heard my proclamation, pushed a wheelchair to me, and immediately wheeled me to a triage nurse, who after listening to my mumble, saw my unreactive hand and fingers, summoned a doctor, and the rest was a fast ride down the hallway, calling out Code Stroke, with fingers being pricked, blood drawn, blood pressure cuff, and about ten people surrounding me. Unbelievable.
After an almost CAT scan, more people, more questions, and the the official pronouncement that my problem was only a 2 on the scale out of a possible 4 which was required for the TPP.
So ... after an afternoon of observation in the ER, I became an overnight guest. The next day, Tuesday, I was informed that there was not much they could do for a TIA similar to mine.
So after being sent home Tuesday evening, I sit and wait for my new blood thinner to kick in, and for the effects of a TIA to pass, which may take awhile. I can still walk, think, type, and speak, but I am kinda weak. Therefore, I am OK.
I just thought I would share my adventure with everyone on this board.
posted on August 27, 2008 03:52:28 PM new
Been there - done that! I also had a small TIA. Scary huh?? Trust me, with a small one you will get better. I had one about 5 years ago and I stay on blood thinners. The only problem with thinners is you have to react quickly if you get a bad cut or wound and prior to any surgery you have to stop taking them. Other than that I have had no problems. No more strokes either. It took me awhile to get higher brain functions working 100%. Like being to add a column of numbers in my head quickly. Sometimes I still have a passing weakness in one of my arms or legs but it passes quickly and have no lasting damage.
Take it easy for awhile and I hope you feel better quickly.
posted on August 27, 2008 04:42:56 PM new
I am so glad you went to the hospital right away and so glad it went away quickly. It is very scary to have that happen. They often can't find anything wrong in your arteries, I know they could not find anything wrong with mine. Take it easy for a while, take care of yourself.
posted on August 27, 2008 04:52:40 PM new
Bill...glad to hear you are okay. Take it easy....careful licking all those stamps! You never know where they have been. Our prayers are with you.
Side topic...CHRIS...that was a very nice post also. You do not see that often from a "company". Not only does it show that you are monitoring this site, but also you are human.
posted on August 27, 2008 08:25:45 PM new
Wow, what an adventure, scary.
A TIA can be a "stroke" of luck, no kidding.
It's a warning that a big one is not far away, mabe weeks, maybe months, but for sure on the way.
With a TIA they can start medication that will prevent a major stroke.
The unlucky people do not have a TIA (aka mini stroke) the major one hits out of the blue & life is forever changed, if you survive it.
Some TIA's pass quickly & are ignored & that can be a fatal mistake. If you ever have moments of confusion, trouble seeing, talking, writing your name or uneven strength squeezing someones' hands you are most likely having a TIA. Call 911....fast.
I'm so glad you got to the hospital right away & very glad your wife was with you to get you there.
posted on August 28, 2008 01:45:21 AM new
mcjane is right. Scary as it was - it was a blessing too.
Sounds like you were in the right place at the right time.
Take care of yourself and get better.
posted on August 28, 2008 04:00:31 AM new
I remember you posting this below not too long ago....
"Something has happened to me overnight. I woke up with difficulty walking, and problem with my fingers. I have had tests and been sent home to bed for 24 hrs.
