Head pain 10 yrs after VM: I was diagnosed... - Meningitis Now

Meningitis Now

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Head pain 10 yrs after VM

Cameronh profile image
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I was diagnosed with viral meningoencephalitis (meningitis and encephalitis) in April of 2008...hospitalized for 2 wks, home for about a week and a half, then back in for 10 days. I have not been without head pain since April 14/2008. Some days are better than others, some days are pure hell, with vomiting and vertigo. I have pretty much come to terms that this will be my life. I have seen several neurologists, had injections in my head, tried gabapentin, lyrica, several different pain meds, massage therapy, but no relief. Anyone else suffer like this?

Thanks..

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Cameronh
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ShannanLouise profile image
ShannanLouise

Hi Cameronh, I'm so sorry to hear of your suffering. I had Bacterial Meningitis in 2013 and am still, five and a half years on, suffering debilitating head pain. It seems that the neurologists wipe their hands of us fairly quickly. Nothing seems to touch this pain and it really does limit one's life. I have occasional ok days when I can walk and my speech is fine, but then I go downhill badly (usually if exposed to loud noise or vibrations) which then means my pain roars back and I can't walk and my speech is blurred but the worst of it is the terrible pain in the head that nothing can relieve. I feel for you. I've been trying CBD oil (from Holland and Barrett) which at first seemed to help, but now I'm not sure it's doing anything. Rest and quiet seem the only things that stop the pain, but it's very hard when you want to get on with your life! I'm a neuroscientist and have been unable to get back to my lab all this time which is incredibly frustrating. I feel for you and hope that you find a way to ease the pain. Let us all know if you do!

Tortie360 profile image
Tortie360

Hi. I had the bacterial meningitis. I'm on Gabapentin now but to be honest it is not making much difference. I'm waiting for the injection for my ears. I have bad ears and all the symptoms of tinnitus along with feeling like I'm struggling with my hearing. Over 12 months on and I'm still waiting for hospital appointments!!! I know the feeling, it's frustrating but I try to remain positive. All the best.

Chavaune profile image
Chavaune

I had bacterial meningitis and have been on oxycodon and gabapentin and they helped me to a certain extent so I have pretty much given up on the painkillers. I'm currently weening myself off of the gabapentin. I have been using essential oils for the pain and have just started going to gym. The exercise is a great way to get rid of extra energy, concentrate on getting fit and starting over. I have started eating less inflammatory foods and drinking a variety of fresh smoothies and I feel so much better for it. I am healthier, more stronger mentally and physically and it is really getting my mind off of the pain. I meditate to clear my mind and it also helps with the pain. I also listen to binureal beats for the pain and try not to booze it up too much. Stay positive and keep busy xoxo

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