So... there's some new things on the medical horizon for me here. I saw a new doctor a few weeks ago. He's a functional (or chiropractic) neurologist at a place called Integrated Health Systems named, Dr. Shane Steadman. He trained under the guy who fixed Sidney Crosby's noggin!
He started with a 2 hour exam and comprehensive bloodwork last week, and we had our meeting today to discuss all the findings and treatment plan. Right where I hit my head is the left/mid cerebellum, which he could tell from his exam is not functioning properly. There are also slight deficiencies in my left cortex (frontal lobe).
The cerebellum controls balance, coordination, motor functions, and some cognitive functions. It also has been tensing up my muscles, because it makes my body think I'm off balance all the time. He's given me some exercises to do with my eyes that are going to help strengthen the communication between my eyes, cerebellum, and body.
The bloodwork revealed some issues with my glucose, iron, vitamin D, and thyroid levels. I am going to start supplements to work on those issues. I've also been given a neurotransmitter protocol to try where I take serotone, dopatone, and gabatone for 2 days each to see if any of those will give me immediate boosts.
He has high expectations for this course of treatment over a 7 week period starting when I get back from my trip to Buffalo. When we asked him what they were, he said that he expected me to have no headaches, nausea, unsteadiness, fatigue, etc. at the end of this. Dan and I are very encouraged and cautiously optimistic. There is a lot of work I have to do over the next few months to keep up with this stuff. Could I please ask you to pray for my attitude, endurance, and faith?
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He started with a 2 hour exam and comprehensive bloodwork last week, and we had our meeting today to discuss all the findings and treatment plan. Right where I hit my head is the left/mid cerebellum, which he could tell from his exam is not functioning properly. There are also slight deficiencies in my left cortex (frontal lobe).
The cerebellum controls balance, coordination, motor functions, and some cognitive functions. It also has been tensing up my muscles, because it makes my body think I'm off balance all the time. He's given me some exercises to do with my eyes that are going to help strengthen the communication between my eyes, cerebellum, and body.
The bloodwork revealed some issues with my glucose, iron, vitamin D, and thyroid levels. I am going to start supplements to work on those issues. I've also been given a neurotransmitter protocol to try where I take serotone, dopatone, and gabatone for 2 days each to see if any of those will give me immediate boosts.
He has high expectations for this course of treatment over a 7 week period starting when I get back from my trip to Buffalo. When we asked him what they were, he said that he expected me to have no headaches, nausea, unsteadiness, fatigue, etc. at the end of this. Dan and I are very encouraged and cautiously optimistic. There is a lot of work I have to do over the next few months to keep up with this stuff. Could I please ask you to pray for my attitude, endurance, and faith?
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Hi Kate. I have followed your blog since 4 years ago when I fractured my skull in an accident. I injured my cerebellum, left frontal lobe and left temporal lobe. I found medication that has gotten me through university. Changed my life. 25mg of elavil, 40mg of Propanolol and 50mg of a drug called Pristiq. That one in particular eliminated 85% of my migraines and symptoms. 2 years ago I was out of school, dizzy, anxious, depressed. Talk to your doctor first of course but the Pristiq was a game changer. It is labelled as an antidepressant but I use it for migraine/headaches. It's saved my life. I am able to put in 12 hour days of school and studying. Just thought I would pass along what has worked for me. I wish you well in this horrible battle.
ReplyDeleteAnon, I'm sorry you are dealing with your own troubles from a head injury. It's a tough road. I'm glad you have found something that helps your symptoms! That's fantastic! Good luck to you!
DeleteKate
Hello Kate, I am also an endurer of PCS due to a concussion back in 7/09. It has changed my life completely.
ReplyDeleteThrough the depression and grief of the loss of my former self I have come to the realization that though I still struggle with headaches etc. I am a better person in that I have learned to accept myself for who I am.
I am also a Christian but I feel I have backslidden. Interestingly though, reading about your treatment and great recovery has me wanting to rekindle my faith and to read the bible again.
Kate, you are an inspiration for me I thank you very much.
I will pray for you.
Neil