Update

[Numptybrain]

Hi everyone, I promised to let you know any updates. I went to audiology and ENT yesterday, had a hearing test then seen a specialist nurse then a consultant. I’m afraid I need a cochlear implant, my hearing is very poor now in my left ear, they think the cause is my sensorial hearing loss suddenly just got worse. The cluster headaches could be part of TMJ which he noticed I had yesterday so nothing to do with medication.

I’m just trying to get around to the fact I need this implant as it came as a shock.

Thanks for your support and advice

Wendy xx

[DorsetLady PMRGCAuk volunteer]

Thanks for update… no doubt a shock regarding cochlear implant, but at least some better news on cluster headaches…

All the best 🌸

[Numptybrain in reply to DorsetLady]

Thank Dorset lady

Wendy xx

[PMRpro Ambassador]

Glad you have seen someone - how long may you have to wait for the implant? It isn't the same as hearing with ears obviously but they seem to be amazing once you get used to them.

[Numptybrain in reply to PMRpro]

He didn’t say but he was lovely and he is in charge of the process. He said I can speak to some patients who have already had it done to get their experience on the whole process. Apparently the sound quality is Mickey Mouse at first but it gets better and far better than hearing aids. Up to now it’s my left ear but my right ear has decreased also but not yet at the same level. I was diagnosed in 2010 and my job was wearing a headset speaking to customers up until 2016 till I took I’ll so I suppose for bilateral sensorial hearing loss I’ve done well up till now.

Thanks

Wendy xx

[PMRpro Ambassador in reply to Numptybrain]

At least there is the likelihood that it will improve as you get used to it whereas with hearing aids it gets worse until they don't help any more.

[Numptybrain in reply to PMRpro]

That’s what the ENT consultant said, my left hearing aid isn’t doing the job anymore and it’s the strongest I can get so it’s time.

Wendy xx

[herdysheep]

That seems like a mixed blessing. Good that you saw someone who was on the ball and pleasant, and that the implant will significantly improve things. If you find relief for cluster headaches, do let us know.

[Numptybrain in reply to herdysheep]

Zolmitriptan 5mg nasal spray works for me, issued by GP . So might be worth asking.

Good luck

Wendy xx

[herdysheep in reply to Numptybrain]

Thank you. My nosebleeds seem to be linked to really bad headaches, so could be worth a try.

[Numptybrain in reply to herdysheep]

Definitely worth speaking to your GP about.

Good luck

Wendy xx

[PMRpro Ambassador in reply to herdysheep]

Do you check your BP when the nosebleeds and headache coincide?

[herdysheep in reply to PMRpro]

Usually don't want to move for quite a while even after nosebleed has stopped. I know I should - must do it next time. Head feels like it will explode with slightest movement and can be quite light headed.

[PMRpro Ambassador in reply to herdysheep]

Which comes first?

[herdysheep in reply to PMRpro]

nosebleed

[PMRpro Ambassador in reply to herdysheep]

Hmm - so no warning to go and get the BP cuff ... I used to have mine lying on the sofa where I usually sit!

[herdysheep in reply to PMRpro]

No hands free to sort it either - rolling a nose bung in vaseline one handed, paper towel in other hand squeezing nose and if necessary one handed persuading ice cubes into tea towel. God help us if need the loo as well! All part of life's rich pattern it seems. If it is in the evening, it means sleeping sitting up.

[SheffieldJane]

It is a relief to get a diagnosis and a treatment option. Wishing you all the best for the procedure and the getting used to it period. X

[Numptybrain in reply to SheffieldJane]

Thank you