VM Newbie WTF?

[EimsD]

Hi I'm struggling to actually lift my hand to type. Was diagnosed at A&E as having Viral Meningitis. Couldn't bear the pain in my head as was worst ever. Also sore neck and crazy buzzing in ears with visual disturbances. This was 3 days ago. I usually live alone but I'm staying with my parents as I feel so weak. I can't believe how debilitating it is. I'm 51 and have been feeling unwell generally for months. Work stress is awful and I wonder is ther a connection?

Would love to speak to anyone for some info and tips!

Thanks

[harpersofengland]

I’m so sorry to hear you’ve been diagnosed with VM. It’s just something else. I was diagnosed the 20th of December last year (2017) & came home with a severe post lumbar puncture headache. For the first week I could only crawl to get out of bed because being upright hurt so bad. Then I slept for over a month and hardly remember anything while my husband worried & took care of our four children.

It’s going to take you a lot more time than you want it to before you feel well. My go-to things that help me are rest in a quiet room, ice packs on my eyes & forehead, and fruit smoothies. Cold is so lovely now. At first the only music I could listen to was Enya. And music or movies are really tiring. I can’t read a book or colour a picture without developing more of a headache. As I’ve gotten better, I’ve simplified & organised my lifestyle to help my brain cope. I have memory loss, hemiparesis, and head & neck ache three months after. Can’t stand lights, loud noises, and I find trying to carry on a conversation tiring.

I’ve also found myself very vulnerable to secondary infections as my immune system is so low. I can be fine one day & sick again the next. Recently have been referred to neurology & waiting for an appointment. Before I became ill I was a long distance runner & Krav Maga student, a mum to four & getting ready for an international move. Now I’m still recovering- and getting ready for that move.

You will doubtless have others respond with better information & tips. And you’ll find what works best for you. Hopefully some of my ideas & experience are helpful. I wish you all the best on your way to recovery.

[EimsD in reply to harpersofengland]

Thanks so much for this. I feel bad relying on others esp my parents who are well into thier 70s. I find my eyes get sore and I trip over my feet but mostly the drugged feeling and zero energy is the worst. Even chatting is tiring. I'm also cold all the time. Im going to get some advice from my go and see how things go. Can't see me being able to go bk to work for a while.

E

[KTebay]

Really focus on eating well and resting for a month or two. It really helps to assist your body in healing. At 52, and having VM in December, I can say I feel almost back to normal at this point in March.

Pounding in ears is stronger after work day...but greatly receding. I am not taking a regular Tylenol like I was even three weeks ago.

Taking care of yourself will pay off.

[EimsD]

Cheers for that. Good advice!

[Helpman]

Hi stop lifting any thing no stairs take short walks this will take 2 to 3 months listen to your body if it hurts stop trust me had vm two year in a row last time was October 2017 just getting to about 75% well so take it easy God bless helpman

[eileennorwood]

Yes stress / work. That is how mine started 6 years ago. I felt my best when I ate , rested and listen to my body.

I understand the one day you feel good then you are down for 3 days. I am in a bad spot now, I have jumped back into work/kids and the joys of regular life, I ignored the fact that my body is not the same. Listen to ur body..

[EimsD]

So I'm back on phased basis to work. It's v tough! I'm struggling but seeing gp tommorow for some advice I hope. Can't afford to leave my job or even reduce my hours permanently. I'm only back 2 half days and I'm exhausted. Any ideas?