Hello, I'm Gemma

[gemmamjohnson]

I'm 30+, had asthma since I was a child. Last May I had a server asthma attack and was put into an induced coma. Came out of it with a different personality, some would say e.g. I react to things differently, speak with a welsh'ier accent I've been told and eating foods I didn't eat before. Was diagnosed with ptsd in December, depression. I can't concentrate on things and my memory is haze at best about the last 5 years of my life, most of the time people ask me do I remember something and the answer is no. Has anyone been through a similar experience, and willing to offer me some advice.

[Hidden]

Hi this sounds bizarre!  I am sorry I can't help but I do hope you find some answers.  x

[gemmamjohnson in reply to Hidden]

Thanks

[sharshy]

I have heard of something like this before but the people it happened to spoke a different language. Go on TV and ask why this has happened.

[gemmamjohnson in reply to sharshy]

I'm too much of an introvert to go on TV but thanks

[netochka]

Sounds really difficult. I wonder if there are forums for people who've had serious incidents like that (not necessarily asthmatic, but say who've been in an induced coma for some trauma), where you might find more support? Sorry I know nothing about it myself except to say that many years ago after a massive brain haemorrhage my mother did show some changes in her personality and I would say that they eased up over a few years. Probably she could have done with more medical/social support during that time. I wonder if your healthcare professionals could do more for you or link you up with some support in the real world? My friend is an occupational therapist and if you could see one that might possibly be a start. Could some of your symptoms be side effects from any medicine for ptsd or depression? Have you been given some psychological support? Good luck.

[gemmamjohnson in reply to netochka]

I'm awaiting psychological support. I will look into an occupational therapist thank you.

[Annista]

You've clearly had a really bad time and need help to come to terms with it all.  This will not go away on its own.  I had a vague recollection of reading something about people who have spent some time in Intensive Care having PTSD and needing treatment for it so I Googled PTSD following ICU and found several good items, including one from the BMJ, which includes a contribution from an asthma sufferer.  Perhaps if you print some of these out and take them to your GP or asthma consultant you will be listened to and given the support you need,

Good luck.

[gemmamjohnson in reply to Annista]

I will do that, thanks

[Annista in reply to gemmamjohnson]

I hope it all goes well for you.

[gemmamjohnson]

Thanks all I really do appreciate your advice. I only found this forum last night. it felt like perfect timing too, was feeling so low but have had a good look round the site and know im not alone. I do have other problems with strength, sleep, and a few other things but I think that's just the side effects of the coma.