Dreaded Angiogram.

[trelfy1]

In may I had 2 brain haemorrhages,followed by a 19 hour op to remove an AVM. Before my brain haemorrhage nothing really bothered me, I just got on with everything, but now I've got an angiogram Tuesday - i can't get it off my mind. I've never,ever, had trouble sleeping but I'm so anxious. Feel a bit stupid really!

[SAMBS]

Hi Trelfy, 1st time I've seen it called an AVM on Headway - its the terminology they use here in France though. I still have some of mine left and contained via 2 'spirales'. I don't know how long my op took March 2013. It all just suddenly happened on the evening that I had the AVM and haemorrhage. Yours sounds a hell of a lot worse and more serious than mine was. I was rushed to one hospital and woke up in a different one 3 days later.

My Angio was 6 months after my op and I was taken by 'ambulance-taxi) to the hospital on the day I had it, but only because there was no-one to take or go with me. No eating for several hours beforehand. There was quite a lot of 'lying around' in a hospital 2 bedded room before and after just on the day. It was a painless process for me. I even took a book in to read as I didn't know what was going to happen. I hope there will be someone for you to be with o/night on Tuesday. I didn't find it painful, just a little uncomfortable.

There's nothing more worrying than the unknown, so I do understand how you feel, but please don't feel stupid, you're like the rest of us, we've all had scary unexpected experiences. I hope this also relieves some of the anxiety.

Other than your concern about Tuesday, I do hope you are feeling ok and coping as well as you think you should/could. Don't hesitate to come back on to HW if you have other concerns, even phone Headway and speak to them tomorrow.

'Bon Chance' and do let us know how you get on.Shirley.

[cat3]

Hi trelfy. Please don't upset yourself on account of this procedure. The radiologist will do all she/he can to ensure you have the minimum of discomfort. You'll receive a local anaesthetic before the dye is injected to prevent pain from the injection itself. The worst you can expect is a 'full' feeling around the area being injected along with a warm sensation.

I did feel slightly nauseous at first but that passed quite quickly and, after spending a couple of hours resting, I was allowed to go home.

It's fear of the unknown isn't it..................but honestly there's nothing to fear.

Just try to relax tomorrow, and breathe deeply to minimise the stress ; it'll be over before you know it. Let us know how you get on.

All best wishes xx

[trelfy1]

Thanks for the replies - it really helps hearing everyone's experiences and advice.

[Nks425]

Dear trefly,

I understand you feelings about the angio. I have had several up to this point. Like the others said you may feel a little discomfort but to be honest on the first one I don't remember. The 1st one was done the day after my hemorage on April,2013 it was done to inject the glue to the leaking point. I have had several after to see how my AVM is doing. I had Gamma Knife September 2013 to try to get rid of my AVM we will see how it is working as I go for my angio next Monday.

Prayers to you that you feel calm and comfortable. Like Cat said just take a deep breath it helps

Niyani