Post Viral Meningitis

[Hardy150612]

Hi There

1st post. I was hospitalised with viral meningitis for a fortnight Sept-Oct. Since being home I am still experiencing constant headaches, dizziness and nausea. I have seen my gp who said this is normal and It can take alot of time to get back to normal. My question is... Is there any hints or tips for recovery and especially dealing with the headaches. I have two young children so lying flat out in bed isn't an option.

Thanks

[dfirks]

Hi. I suffered the same for weeks after as I also had visual balance issues. My doctor prescribed me motion sickness pills as he had tried this once before. It was like a miracle and really improved my symptoms. It may really be worth a try for you x

[MadBolly]

I am 3 month's post viral meningitis. I have good days and bad days. 2 weeks ago, I started making my own smoothies and whether it is a coincidence or not, they have helped slightly. I am still getting the aches and pains but the dizzyness has subsidised (unless I over do it). Good luck with your recovery. I know how hard it is to be poorly with 2 small children.

[Seacalm]

Having 2 young children myself and having had VM in February this year I empathise with how difficult it is to rest once you are home. At 41 I had to ask for lots of help for the first time with getting kids to school and nursery as i couldn't drive, barely walk, the headaches, nausea, dizziness were so severe for the first 3 months. During the first 6 months I would definately focus on very little, no t.v. computer if you can. I had to prioritize an hour with my kids and even their laughter and kids noises was too much for my head that was the most upsetting part. But I tried not to show it for an hour and then said mummy needs to rest and went back to a dark room. Having been a very fit multi tasking mum who works learning not to over do it and start from scratch took time. Housework can wait, food stop can be done online, cuddles and reading with the kids took priority. My partner works overseas alot and my family live 3 hours away so a couple of weeks help was amazing. I'm still not there I can't watch swings move, cope with the tv or the kids loud noises, can't have the lights on and have days of severe headaches. But I am slowly getting there I can drive for 40 minutes now and I'm on a phased return to work. I have found anti inflammtory foods and high strength vitamin c and zinz 1000mg twice a day makes a difference. I try not to take tablets for my head in case of rebound headaches but some weeks I I have to take paracetamol, ibroprofen and oramorph. The breathworks website and online course on mindfulness for pain or book from the library is excellent to help focus on meditation and pacing yourself.

I hope your symptoms gradually start to reduce. It does take time I was told 18 months. Be kind to yourself everyday and focus on the most important things to you and rest as much as you can.

[Hardy150612]

Thanks all for the replies. I am really struggling the last few days and today I am giving in and going back to bed. It's so hard for people to understand when you can't see the symptoms xx

[Lippistix]

Please give my daughters success story a read!

meningitisnow.org/support-u...