Quote:
Originally Posted by Nursenicole103180
Hi everyone. I had a vp shunt put in on Nov 25, due to iih. I was in the hospital for 4 days due to BP issues and syncope right after but that has since resolved. I was discharged but wasnt told what was normal vs not normal as far as healing and feelings. So I've been finding myself searching the Web for answers, which are all over the place. I don't feel good. I'm exhausted, my head hurts, it feels like it's full of pressure.. And alot of pressure near my eyes... Almost sinus infection like, but I don't have one. I'm guessing this is normal seeings surgery was only 9 days ago, but I live alone with my 8 year old son and admittedly, I'm afraid. Any advice, suggestions, stories ect would be greatly appreciated.
Thank you
Nicole
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Hey Nicole,
Believe me when I say that that fear is normal. At first, every little twinge, every little ache and I was hitting the panic button. But over time you do learn which pains/sensations need attention and which ones do not. I am almost 20yrs since insertion of the initial shunt and 3 yrs post my last incident and revision. My wife will often look at me in agony and ask if I need an ambulance, which I decline, saying "...things will settle..." and they normally do. I think for me the biggest thing is to be aware, not afraid, nor alarmed, just aware.
For me the worst thing is the headaches and the unrelenting pressure in my eyes and face. I've been to see an ENT specialist and been told all is OK, but I can tell you it feels FAR from fine imo. Now as I say it's been 3yrs since my last surgery and still things aren't good, but 9 days ago? things are still healing and I have found that recovery is a long, slow (very slow) road. I tried to push myself to recover and get back to work, ahh don't do that, it seems I may have pushed myself too hard and done myself more harm than good. And now the dr's are telling me it is unlikely I'll ever be able to return to my former employment. Grrrrrrrrr, not happy. So slowly, slowly. Listen to your body, it will tell you when it needs rest. And do not be like me and push yourself too much.
Hope it helps
Merl1n