ANA Discussion Forum
Post-Treatment => Post-Treatment => Topic started by: Denise S on November 17, 2009, 10:02:29 pm
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My suregery was last Monday Middle Fossa. My husband has been trying to do things on my blog. Hopefully will update more tomorrow afternnon. I'm still having eye problems, sweling, pain, etc. so not on computer except the one day I asked a question. I'm going back tomorrow to see dr. I will write more when I can focus my eyes, etc.
Want to be sure to THANK everyone who has commented on blog, etc. Neil said it took him 3 hours to do 1st posting because he knew nothing about computers. Funny, but he said it was great because it gave him something to do. My surgery was 7 1/2 hours, whereas they thougth it would be 5-7 (I got a very big head/thick skull) Hopefully I'll be feeling better and able to see soon!!
I can talk, so for those of you who have my number, feel free to call me if you want. Denise
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Denise,
Sounds like you are doing pretty good for only 1 week post op. I did a little bit of reading after 10 days, but didn't start posting again for about three weeks.
Dan in Germany
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Denise,
Sorry about your eye problems. I had a little trouble focusing after surgery too -- it gets better with time. You otherwise sound like you're doing great for such a short time post-op. I hope your recovery continues to go smoothly.
Best wishes,
Wendy
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It sounds like your doing great. I am now in my 4th week of recovery and my life is back to normal. I do realize this isn't the normal having this fast of recovery. But i wanted you to know the first few days home. But towards the second week, I had no trouble reading. I was also driving and shopping my second week too- even before my staples were out. I had a different type of surgery than the 3 types that are listed. I have a 12 inch scar that is unnoticeable unless I raise my hair. In my 4th week post op visit yesturday, I got the ok to lifted my 125 pound daughter who is disabled and I did it without any problems at all. I think Denise everyones recovery is different. The hardest thing for me was just sitting around. But your doing wonderful and I am so proud of you. Remember this isn't an easy surgery to begin with and your only in your first week of recovery. Everything does get better in time.
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Hi Denise .....
So glad you are feeling well enough to at least post a quick update for us. Don't push it trying to use your eyes too much. I did not have facial involvement but my eyes were very weak for quite a while post-surgery ...... double vision at first, light sensitivity, etc. The longest recovery was getting my gaze stabilization back. Even now, when I am tired I have to concentrate very hard to keep them in focus. Not sure if this is related to anyone's overall fatigue .....
Rest and then let us know how you are doing, as you can.
Thoughts and prayers continue. Clarice
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Denise! Good to see you are posting again. Don't overdo it though, especially after just a week or so. Let those eyes adjust gradually! I had some focus issues as well, but it really improved over the last week.
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Denise,
Sorry to hear that your eye is bothering you. I hope that resolves quickly. Otherwise, good to hear from you and I'm sure things will only get better from here!
Lyn
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Hi, Denise ~
Welcome to 'Postie-Land'! :) I hope the post-op issues diminish and then, go away, soon. We're praying for your complete recovery. Meantime, don't push yourself - and try to remain positive.
Jim
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Hi Denise,
Sounds like you are doing great for one week out, minus the eye problems.
Let them rest along with your other body parts!
I enjoyed quiet music on CD's and even books on CD to rest my weary head post op (headache issues).
Take it easy, and be gentle on yourself. Gentle daily walks, lots of fluids.....I'm sure you know the routine ;)
Maureen
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Well, I think I'm back on the up side. I just posted a LONG explanation on my blog listed below in my signature.
I ended up going backwards because my stupid body had a flair up with spinal nerve issues. I had back aches and neck aches before, but the doctors knew too and tried to position me comfortably. We never knew what caused my pains, my family doctor wasn't ever too worried about it and I took muslce relaxers and it seemed to help. WELL, laying on a surgery table and hopsital bed like I did flaired up something in me. Of course we didn't know it at first because I was on morphine in the hospital. Everything went upside down and backwards after coming home and using a different pain med and then having an allergic reaction to it. ughh.......it's all there on my blog, but I think I'm on the up side now.
Now that I can see better too, I hope to be back on this site more. Probably in the middle of the night while having insomnia due to the steroids ;)
Thanks again everyone, and I'm emotionally trying to stay strong. I'm only 38 and have had way to many health issues.....still trying to figure out what Gods plan is for me.....???
With my loving heart and appreciating the kindness from this website,
Denise Sanford
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Glad to hear things are looking up for you, Denise! Sorry you had such a rough "start" post-op. :-[
My only advice would be if you find you're having trouble emotionally get outside help sooner rather than later. I'm almost 9 weeks postop and just started with a therapist and wish I had done it earlier! Now I feel like my recovery is "lopsided" since physically things are moving along but emotionally I'm a mess. :P
Anyway, just my two cents. Hope things continue to improve quickly from here!
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My prayers are with you and I hope you will have more steps forward see if the doctors will give you something to sleep I am taking ambien and it means so much to get a good nights sleep which you need to heal....
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Well, I'm spending a little time Thanking everyone for their comments on my posts, and on my blog.
I am glad I started the blog because it at least gives me place to go an write and work off mental things. I have had MANY comments from family and friends at how cool the comments are and informative some are from the fellow ANers.
I'm definately dealing with my issues, and as we all know.....everyone's situation is completely different. As for now though I'm staying in on the blog with my overall health issues that are going on, but hope to continue it as a more fun blog for my family.
I have also passed on this forum information to people in my facebook groups. Since there is no support group withing 4 hours of me.................you guys are it! THANKS a LOT!!!
(hopefully no one gets annoyed with my posts...............I'm just so happy to have found this website/forum)
With my loving heart,
Denise Sanford
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I for one enjoy reading as many posts as I can and find them very informative as we are all having different experiences. The only thing I wish I could help others but I am not articulate in my writings and others are wonderful in interpreting things better then I possibly could they only thing i can offer is my prayers....
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NO of course we are not annoyed with your posts, Silly!
That's why we're here. No problem is too small. There are so many differing side effects of this surgery and you'll definitely find company.
Give yourself at least 6 weeks to rest, be pampered, walk, sleep, etc if you can.
No fancy Thanksgiving preparations. Let your loved ones do it!
I'm sure they are thankful to just have you there, alive and well.
Good healing vibes,
Maureen
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Hi Denise,
I am glad that surgery is over for you. All the best in a speedy recovery.
Vivian
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Ugh, thought I better mention I did another post on the blog today. Having more issues of spinal, etc. and had another dr. appt.
Between 3 doctors discussions they have decided to send me for full body MRI of brain all the way down to bottom of spine. The surgery part is healing good now, but the other pains in my body are crazy.
After talking with another fellow ANer here and discussed more on NF2, I did a bit of research, then called dr. to ask about it. He did say yes, that is one other reason they want to due the full MRI, but the chances are pretty slim.
So, It is sceduled Monday, please keep me in your prayers and thoughts and hopefully it's just a simple issue. I was told before I had a mild Chiari Malformation, but it wasn't too concerning. This MRI willl check over that good to.
Too young to have all this going on. Will try to keep the blog updated.
Thanks everyone once again for prayers, thoughts, etc.
Denise Sanford
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Denise .....
You are going through so much right now. Glad you are having the big MRI next week for some answers.
Prayers that your pain will be relieved!
Clarice
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Denise ~
I'm so sorry to learn of these continuing, escalating problems you're experiencing. I hope the upcoming MRI will help your doctors get to the cause of your pain and not find anything serious.
You'll continue to be my prayers and the prayers of many.
Jim
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Denise
I have been following your recovery thru your blog and I am SO sorry you are having such a tough time. I am happy to hear that you will have a scan on Monday to see if they can figure out what is going on. Hang in there Denise....you are such a trooper.
Erin
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Denise,
I'm so sorry to hear bout all this additional stress and suffering you are experiencing after your surgery. I found myself totally overwhelmed just from AN surgery alone and after all you're going through, you still sound very strong. I admire your courage and I will be praying for good results on your MRI. You are one tough lady with a great big heart.
Amy
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Amy, I actually tried to call and talk to you today. Seems like we are both going through plenty of stuff after our surgeries.
I'm not really strong, but the doctors put me on valium because of the facial swelling and oddness I got over this past weekend. Plus I'm on pain meds. I don't like pills, but I'm assuming it's only for a short time. The valium truley is helping with my anxiety worries, and getting some sleep (cause the steroids are strong insomnia things), and with the facial muscle stuff. Trust me, I was in so much pain, I was at the very bottom of my rope. Luckily I have an awesome husband to get me taken care of. Plus the doctors have worked well together.
I do have a big heart though ;) Oh yeah, I have a big head too! They said my surgery took longer than planned due to getting through my thick skull......hahaha
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Hi Denise,
I just finished reading your blog. Wow, you have detailed your experience completely. Well one thing is for certain...there are many factors interconnected and interrelated in your case.
It sounds like there are some improvements over the past week in some areas and some seemed to increase.
I am hopeful for you as all of the pieces come together with your meds and time.
All the best,
Kate
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Wow Denise,
I too just read your blog. What a whirlwind, I'm glad the Valium is helping.
You are in my prayers for a normal MRI and just to feel better, dangit!
Enjoy a quiet Thanksgiving (hah- with 2 boys?)
Things will get better. Try not to over worry. (I know, easier said than done) ;)
Maureen
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I'm sorry that I may have sounded more negative a bit eariler. It think everything was hitting me emotionally last night. I've tried to be stronger and say it's o.k. My husband is a great support, but ya know there are still a couple who have to say, "oh, you're fine.....it will be all better in a week or so" One of them reads my blog and tends to enjoy it, but makes me feel like I'm going overboard or something. That is why I like this site because there is so much true support!! Thank you. Thanks to those who comment on the blog too, that lets others see that it isn't just me, things like this happen to others and it can be out of our control.
O.K., I think I got my rest and I know these meds are driving me crazy, but I can't say thank you enough for everyones help, etc.
I will not be going to the family Thanksgiving dinner because it is so large, and too much noises are still bugging me. I had a a cat scan done on Friday that shows I do have some brain swelling, etc. Plus the other issues we are not even sure what it is right now. I will enjoy being home in quiet (my husband has to work....bummer), but my inlaws willl take the boys and they can enjoy their time.
This process has also made me do things I never do.......due to the holiday break and half days of school for the kids, I've been calling people and asking them to help out with the boys. I'm pretty much a stay at home, always involved mom and don't do that. Well, they don't need to be around me while dealing with some pain, side effects from AN stuff, and some ot the loopyness from meds.
Thanks again everyone........My special Thanks for this years Thanksgiving is God, but this site and you people come right near the top too!!!!!!
Denise
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Denise -
recovery from AN surgery brings good days and bad days; ups and downs. You are still in the early stages of your recovery, so try to remember that things take time.
I know how difficult it is to ask others for help, I've always been very independent and hate to "burden" others, but you are definitely on the right track asking your in-laws and others to help you out; especially with your children. You'll find that many people will be more than happy to assist you if you just ask.
Jan
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Thanks Jan, you are right. There are lots of people willing to assist. Of course it is just the type of person I am.....must be too independent :) Trust me though, I've totally broke free of lots of that this week. I am taking care of myself and not worrying about the rest of it. Just wish I could get some sleep. I'm tapering the steroids now, and they gave me valium due to the anxiety, insomnia, and muscle issues in my face. Well, I don't think it helps with the insomnia. :-\
Also, I know there is the up and down. I hope it's o.k. that I maybe have vented here some. It's so nice to find people who understand. I have one of those family people who just don't get it or something and act like it's no big deal (makes ya hurt inside).
Jan, thanks again for your comments on posts.
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Venting is always acceptable here - very therapeutic.
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Denise
Many of my family members were very much the same way. I was told at one point to "suck it up that no one likes it when someone is playing the victim". This was when like you I was barely out of the hospital! Along the way I started to not care what people said cause none of them have every had brain surgery! I know that you will find your way as welll but it does hurt along the way. I hope you enjoy your quiet Thanksgiving-I'm glad that you are taking this day for yourself. I also understand the anxiety thing-probably for the first week or so I was terribly anxious and I had a fairly uneventful recovery and did not have to deal with ongoing issues. I don't know if it is a coinicidence but mine anxiety started to ebb around the same time that I was tapering off the Decadron ???. Enjoy your quiet Thanksgiving Denise-indulge in what ever make you feel good!
Erin
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Erin, thanks
Ya know I think the valium they have me on is helping me 'control' and relax with the anxieties.
My husband would stay home with me, but he actually has to work. He works in the oil & gas fields here and ya know that stuff goes everyday.
As for my boys 9 1/2 & 11, I want them to be with the family and have fun.
Just the timing of the surgery..................MUST be better by Christmas though :)
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Denise
You WILL be feeling better for Christmas!
Erin
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I ended up posting some pictures on my blog today. Due to the delayed facial paralysis, it will be nice to see how things progress.
IS THERE A SPECIAL AREA ON HERE FOR PICTURES???
thanks,
Denise
www.thesanfordadventures.blogspot.com
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IS THERE A SPECIAL AREA ON HERE FOR PICTURES???
Nope. You just post them inside your thread (topic).
Jan
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Hi Denise
I just read your updated blog. I don't think you are being negative at all. You are telling it like it is and if it helps you on an emotional level then go for it. You are a sweet lady and stronger than you give yourself credit for!
Erin
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Just the timing of the surgery..................MUST be better by Christmas though :)
If it helps, my surgery was the week after Thanksgiving and I was much better by Christmas.
Kate
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Thanks guys, I'm so excited and shouting to the world today. I wrote more on the blog and some prayers have been answered.
Now my spirits are up and I have more belief and hope. Due to multiple issues, we'll take anything, and today was great.
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Hi Denise,
Yea, what a gift! you could hear your son with your AN ear!
(I read your blog).
Just what you needed to lift your spirits and give you hope.
Things WILL get better. It just takes a long time...Once the swelling continues to go down, you'll see movement on your face I'm betting.
Continue to have faith in your recovery and let nature take its course.
Rest, relax the body and continue to ask for help, OK?
Maureen
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Denise ~
Congratulations on your recovery victories! Your elation is not only well-earned but downright contagious!
I like this comment you posted on your blog: ... this doesn't mean every day gets better, it just means there is the hope of more recovery. Indeed, there is ...and now you've experienced some of the positive manifestations of that very real hope and I'm very happy for you, Denise. May your 'better days' just keep on coming! :)
Jim
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Thank you Jim.....I wrote it that way because it sure is amazing how many people don't understand the oddities with brain surgeries.
One friend made it sound like every day would be better. Well, even according to all my doctors....they said it can change hour by hour. And now, of course I know that.........it's just odd.