Many / most of us are aware we are at increased risk of stroke, and many take a blood thinner to reduce that risk. I have other heart issues that further exacerbate that risk for me personally.

I've been stricken by rapid onset severe headaches that disappear as quickly as they appear. Extensive testing and evaluation cannot find a cause and effect for these headaches.

In the past couple months, I noticed myself stumbling over a word here, a word there but didn't equate it to anything serious. The problem has increased, though still somewhat infrequent. A few minutes ago, I was on the phone and stuttered on a word, that I just couldn't seem to get released from my mind and out my mouth. The stutter was very obvious and pronounced. It didn't last long, and once the word did come out, I was able to complete the thought without further problem. Follow up thoughts I experienced a very slight hesitation or stutter but nothing near as obvious as that first.

That incident was by far the worst, and most pronounced occurrence of this phenomenon, and was accompanied by a slight bit of confusion. I can no longer delude myself into believing it's nothing.

It dawned on my addled mind that perhaps this was the sign of a TIA or stroke. A check on the web didn't really give much information other than one brief acknowledgment it could be associated with a stroke.

Anybody have any thoughts on this subject? I'd appreciate any feedback you care to share.

Patch

 

 

It may be worth your while to have an ultrasound with Doppler of your carotid artery. It's a rather easy test and could certainly ease your mind if you are, in fact, having TIA symptoms.

When you start to notice something, it's time to check.
I had a stroke many years ago and although my symptoms were not quite the same, the end result can be. It took me awhile to stop "listing to the left".

Please go and get that ultrasound. Also maybe a look at your clotting factor and platelet count. That would tell alot.

Best to you, Patch! I really enjoy reading your postings.

Gellia

 

no doubt it is a tia by the way you describe it to me. however as you say we take the drugs to prevent a stroke. you can be assessed. have a doppler kiddo. hugs jessie

 

Sure hope you have the test the two suggested above, sorry i do not know anything to suggest, only take care yourself and God Bless you

 

There is a lot of controversy over the increase of clots with a pacer. There is some evidence that the use of thinners may actually increase the chance of a bleed type stroke especially if a person has any kind of bump on the head. If you are taking thinners wearing a helmet should be worn at all times.

Of course they can be risky too. One of my customers was having problems with passing out so she was instructed to wear a helmet. When she passed out in the bathroom and fell forward the helmet hit the counter top, was pushed back over her head and the strap choked her to death.

frank

 

I think you need to be checked out by a Neurologist if you haven't already done so.

Just a thought.

Pookie

 

Hi. I would just like to wish you all the very best & hope you get this sorted out soon. I too love reading your posts & I'm so sorry to hear you are having these problems. Thinking of you lots...

Best wishes
Janey

 

Thank you all for your input. I have had the plumbing checked, and there is no plaque build up in the carotid arteries.