Brain Scan

[Ivan_the_Terrible]

I developed tinnitus immediately after my second AstraZeneca Covid jab. The NHS were investigating but I freaked out at the sight of the red liquid I had to drink before a brain scan and went abroad a couple of days later for an extended period and was discharged. I've come to live the tinnitus. However I now believe there is a microclot in my brain which causes the tinnitus. I am wondering whether to have a brain scan but also whether there would be any point to it beyond curiosity as I might decide it's better to live with it than have risky treatment. Comments welcome. Thanks in advance.

[doglover1973]

Hi Ivan. It's not an easy decision and it's one that only you can make. I had a scan last November and was offered a second one. I declined for several reasons. That's my choice. I know other people would do differently . At the end of the day you have to what you think is best for you.

[PTNewbie]

I think speak to a medical professional. I went to ENT, audiology and CT scan. It’s sounds like you have a touch of health anxiety (as do I) as your thoughts on causes are very specific. The only way you’ll know is via proper referrals to explore. There’s every possibility it’s not caused by anything obvious. This was my experience - I was convinced it must be cause by something sinister / or an obvious medical cause. But it’s not. So now it’s about working out the best way to cope. I have stated taking a folate (B9) supplement as I have had low levels in the past that can be linked to tinnitus. Interestingly mine started after my covid vaccination so like you I’ve considered could be a factor, but there’s no real meaningful evidence to support enough for a doctor to take on board fully. If you feel a scan will help you, then definitely explore that - as really the only definitive way to know x

[Ivan_the_Terrible in reply to PTNewbie]

Thanks. Mine started immediately, ie within a day of my second jab. I've no reason to doubt the jab caused it. Unfortunately it's going to take the medical profession decades to admit that the vaccines did harm. Having a scan here in Russia would entail rime and money and any side-effects arising. There's no point to having one just to satisfy curiousity hence the question what might doctors do if they found something? As I'm nearly seventy I do wonder if there would be much point to doing anything. Abstaining from booze may help a bit with tinnitus.

[PTNewbie in reply to Ivan_the_Terrible]

Seems like you’re already decided then?

[PTNewbie]

I’d also highly recommend CBT. Either through a referral to speak with someone or using an app like Oto which is CBT based and I’ve found it super helpful in particularly distressing periods of tinnitus. The thing about tinnitus is the more you think about it the more you notice it and the more distressing / disruptive it can feel. But if you can tap in to some psychological support alongside physical exploration you may find the psychological aspect is actually what brings most relief / peace of mind x

[Ivan_the_Terrible in reply to PTNewbie]

I tried CBT in a cafe Portugal earlier this year out of curiosity. I felt woozy. Best taken once you're home for the night. I'm now in Russia for some time, I'd get busted if I tried it here.

[PTNewbie in reply to Ivan_the_Terrible]

I think you might have mixed up what I was saying CBT = Cognitive Behavioural Therapy

[Ivan_the_Terrible in reply to PTNewbie]

That's good for a laugh. Actually I've learned to live with it which is one reason less for having a scan. The stuff that makes you dopey might also be good.

[PTNewbie in reply to Ivan_the_Terrible]

LOL yeah not for me, couldn’t handle it!

[Ivan_the_Terrible in reply to PTNewbie]

are you referring to CBT or CBD?

[Burntorangeheresy]

Def got mine after second AZ as well. There's no doubt in my mind esp after the Europe packaging warning on J&J - and here we are after 2 years and 5 months. So much for it going away....pain in the butt.