Weird Attack

[Formaleins]

Last week I was out driving, mid afternoon and suddenly I had this massive pain shoot up the top left of my head, near the back of my head. Then it was something like the Exorcist, my head began to shake from left to right at a really fast speed, uncontrollable, to the point where I could not even see the road! (Scared the hell out of me) I could not see the road or traffic, but managed to pull over and stopped. Took me almost one hour before I felt able to drive. Never had anything like this before, scared me quite a bit. Hospital wasn't interested (Govt.) I had a headache for 5 days, especially if I moved my head quickly. Had problems balancing in the shower if I closed my eyes. having to roll back and forth on the balls of my feet and eventually having to prop myself on a wall when my eyes are closed. Eyes open, no problem.

 

Had high BP for 30 years, currently taking aspirin 81mg per day, been on Thai Clinic BP meds but they are useless. any ideas? I also now have problems with one of my legs, cannot walk these days, massive calf pain in one leg, where before I was a cross country runner!

 

Just getting the runaround from the clinics and hospitals. Yes, I smoke and drink...... don't we all, When we clear this affliction up maybe I can post a photo of this "second" head that has decided to start growing out of my right elbow recently and online diagnose this affliction too? Jesus, getting old is not really that much fun is it?

Edited May 3, 2021 by Formaleins

[Sheryl]

You need a thorough evaluation by a neurologist. And probably some scans (CT or MRI, with contrast). The sooner the better.

 

Where in Thailand do you live and which hospitals did you go to so far and seen by what type of doctor?

[Formaleins]

2 minutes ago, Sheryl said:

You need a thorough evaluation by a neurologist. And probably some scans (CT or MRI, with contrast). The sooner the better.

 

Where in Thailand do you live and which hospitals did you go to so far and seen by what type of doctor?

Been to the local Govt. Hospital, did nothing, told me I probably pulled a muscle. I am in Chiang Mai, however, I feel totally fine the last few days, headache is gone, did a few "STROKE" tests, droopy smile, droopy arm, not a problem. I just feel you get milked like a cow from these "Doctors" here. My main concern is that recently I have found myself feeling like I am drowning, cannot get any air, not sure if it is some panic attack or something real but it is absolutely terrifying.

[ukrules]

25 minutes ago, Formaleins said:

Had high BP for 30 years, currently taking aspirin 81mg per day, been on Thai Clinic BP meds but they are useless. any ideas?

 

 

I would get the brain scanned, it sounds like you're describing what's known as a 'thunderclap headache' which can have some very serious causes.

 

High blood pressure should be treated to the point where your blood pressure is no longer high - it can be done but this sounds like it's not directly related - but of course it could be the indirect cause.

 

I would want to rule out some kind of aneurysm.

 

Edited May 3, 2021 by ukrules

[4MyEgo]

14 minutes ago, Sheryl said:

The sooner the better.

 

As Sheryl said above, and forget about being milked, you need a proper diagnoses a-ss up, could be a number of things, but leaving it undiagnosed for fear of being milked could turn out to be very very ugly.

 

No money is worth putting your health at risk, give them the milk !

Edited May 3, 2021 by 4MyEgo

[Formaleins]

1 minute ago, ukrules said:

 

 

I would get the brain scanned, it sounds like you're describing what's known as a 'thunderclap headache' which can have some very serious causes.

 

High blood pressure should be treated to the point where your blood pressure is no longer high - it can be done but this sounds like it's not directly related - but of course it could be the indirect cause.

I guess they can do a brain scan, but what to do if the outcome is a bit gloomy? I am not going to be paying these doctors millions  to keep me alive. I have a "limited" budget with a family to support, do yo reckon they will give you the bullet in the head when you need it?

[ThailandRyan]

Neurologist appointment is needed.  I had the same thing occur twice and ended up with the neurologist sending me for a CT scan and MRI.  Mine turned out to be a cervical spine issue and I ended up with a triple neck fusion. Not saying that's your issue, but a Neurologist is the only one who can diagnose the issues.

[Sheryl]

3 minutes ago, Formaleins said:

Been to the local Govt. Hospital, did nothing, told me I probably pulled a muscle. I am in Chiang Mai, however, I feel totally fine the last few days, headache is gone, did a few "STROKE" tests, droopy smile, droopy arm, not a problem. I just feel you get milked like a cow from these "Doctors" here. My main concern is that recently I have found myself feeling like I am drowning, cannot get any air, not sure if it is some panic attack or something real but it is absolutely terrifying.

 

The second thing you mention could indeed be a panic attack. Probably unrelated to the first episode mentioned (other than worry about one may have cuased the other) but there is a  small chance  boith are due to a brain tumor.

 

As already stated, the attack in your first post needs further investigation.  Recommended neurologists in CM include:

 

Prof. Surat Tanprawate at Sripat

 

Dr Nantawat Lerkittipat at Rajavej

 

You will need to have scans and being told that will not mean they are "milking" you. It is what they need to know what is going on in your brain.

[Sheryl]

7 minutes ago, Formaleins said:

I guess they can do a brain scan, but what to do if the outcome is a bit gloomy? I am not going to be paying these doctors millions  to keep me alive. I have a "limited" budget with a family to support, do yo reckon they will give you the bullet in the head when you need it?

 

Obviously they will not give you a "bullet in the head". Neither can they force you to accept any treatment, the choice will be yours.

 

As you do not yet even have a diagnosis, let alone a prognosis (could be something fully curable), it is rather premature to be worrying about treatment costs.

[Antonymous]

It sounds like you aren't prepared to spend the money required to have a thorough check up. At the Govt hospital seeing a doctor will be cheap but unfortunately seems that they don't have a specialist neurologist nor maybe even the equipment to test you properly.

 

I understand if you can't afford it. That's a real bummer. I hope that you'll find some money to be able to get checked at a private hospital. If you make an appointment you don't HAVE to have the scans that they may recommend, but at least you can get a quote for that beforehand.

 

Above all you must ask yourself if you are prepared to make lifestyle changes and/or take drugs to fix your health, if recommended. If you have already decided that your answer is No, then carry on. Make sure that you have your affairs in order and be happy.

[WhiteBuffaloATM]

Recommend a FULL Baseline Medical Exam over two days at a Private Hospital (Brain MRI, Heart CAT Bloods, Urine, XRays). possible brain tumour ordiabetes, with symptoms you describe.....

taking Exam medical advice, you MUST cut the drugs,booze and cigs and switch to a plant based diet with suitable exercise. Otherwise, you are clearly heading over a cliff healthwise. IMMEDIATE ACTION !

[covidiot]

Smoking is the worst.

One guy I know had a stroke. Doctor told him to stop smoking.

That alone extended his life for another 30 years.

 

[Formaleins]

26 minutes ago, Sheryl said:

 

The second thing you mention could indeed be a panic attack. Probably unrelated to the first episode mentioned (other than worry about one may have cuased the other) but there is a  small chance  boith are due to a brain tumor.

 

As already stated, the attack in your first post needs further investigation.  Recommended neurologists in CM include:

 

Prof. Surat Tanprawate at Sripat

 

Dr Nantawat Lerkittipat at Rajavej

 

You will need to have scans and being told that will not mean they are "milking" you. It is what they need to know what is going on in your brain.

Thank you!

[WhiteBuffaloATM]

you sound in really bad shape, like all unreformed drinkers / smokers / druggers, and maybe in imminent danger......at the very least just go your nearest private hospital  for the standard thai basic scope / lowest cost medical for 3,000 baht......they all do it....... that should indicate any issues for doctor - recommended ( your choice) further tests....... full medical will cost 50-60k with MRI & CAT ......you can compare prices & scopes;  but likely to catch any & ALL potentially terminal or serious diseases..any treatment is later & separate issue......that initial exam cost is really nothing compared to KNOWING your real pre_ treatment Health status ........ honestly just do the 3k basic test NOW !

 

[Formaleins]

Just now, WhiteBuffaloATM said:

you sound in really bad shape, like all unreformed drinkers / smokers / druggers, and maybe in imminent danger......at the very least just go your nearest private hospital  for the standard thai basic scope / lowest cost medical for 3,000 baht......they all do it....... that should indicate any issues for doctor - recommended ( your choice) further tests....... full medical will cost 50-60k with MRI & CAT ......you can compare prices & scopes;  but likely to catch any & ALL potentially terminal or serious diseases..any treatment is later & separate issue......that initial exam cost is really nothing compared to KNOWING your real pre_ treatment Health status ........ honestly just do the 3k basic test NOW !

 

it is the repair costs that need evaluating, no point throwing good money after bad!

[Patong2021]

Please stop driving until you sort this out. The next time you may not be able to pull over and stop. Instead you could be running over children coming from school or driving off the road into a crowded shop. If you wish to go untreated that is your choice, just please do not kill innocent people because of it.

[olfu]

Welcome to the old age--your body tell you you need some changes. Start from reducing blood pressure, stop smoking. I had similar problem and these best american doctors have no clue except blabbering. 

After researching internet I realized I have to slow down.

[2009]

Scary stuff.

 

You are worth more to your family alive that dead, surely.

[VocalNeal]

In a way I can see the OP's reluctance. You go to the hospital with a broken leg, then OK it is broken. You walk into a hospital seemingly fit and nothing outwardly wrong how do you tell anyone what the problem is. 

If you find a good neurologist they should take the time to listen slowly to the problem and be able to suggest a course of action. 

The question is how to find one you trust.

[Puccini]

I join those who suggested that you should get a brain scan. If I had an incident with the symptoms you described I definitely would want to get it checked out early. I do not mean to scare you, but I knew someone who died from a ruptured aneurism because he got misdiagnosed by his general practitioner.

[2009]

What was the result of your last thread? Have the walking problems persisted?

 

Could it be related to this?

 

https://forum.thaivisa.com/topic/1163780-cramps-numbness-trouble-walking/

 

And what ever happened to those bubbles on your wrist? Did they become painful or stay painless? Did they burst or form open sores/ulcers? How did they go away? Have you had more since?

 

Edit: I will just call it now. If you have had skin ulcers and neuro problems, you could have tertiary Syphilis (that said, either of these symptoms on their own also could be that)

 

Edited May 3, 2021 by 2009

[NCC1701A]

2 hours ago, Formaleins said:

Just getting the runaround from the clinics and hospitals. Yes, I smoke and drink...... don't we all,

no. 

i am 65 and have no underlying conditions. it's all lifestyle, diet and exercise. 

would you drive your car without oil? 

 

 

[2009]

9 minutes ago, NCC1701A said:

no. 

i am 65 and have no underlying conditions. it's all lifestyle, diet and exercise. 

would you drive your car without oil? 

 

 

 

Impressive.

 

I am half your age and feel unhealthy. I even have pre-hypertension.

 

What's your lifestyle like?

[burlap]

If you have some place to stay in Bangkok, I would suggest Chula public hospital.  I recently had an unusual & very difficult to diagnose heart/lung problem.  I started treatment at Bangkok Christian,  but once it was determined I needed open heart surgery which they couldn't perform there. They brought in a Surgeon from St. Louis hospital for consultation.  He said the surgery would be about 450,000 dirt cheap by US standards but pricey for me especially considering I had just spent 70,000 on tests at Christian. (Which included a night in a private room, examinations with 4 different specialists, tons of tests, including a CT scan. Actually a good bargain for a private hospital.)

 

I told them I needed some time to think and as I was leaving one of my doctors pulled me aside and suggested I go to Chula - The doctors, technicians and equipment are better than I would find at St. Louis, and it would be much cheaper.  I thanked him and the next day my wife and I signed up at Chula.  This started a whole new round of testing which included 3 hours in an angioplasty machine, tons of blood tests, sonograms, etc. and lung biopsies.

 

One good thing about public hospitals is they lose money on complicated procedures so you needn't worry about that.  To make a long story less long - I got the surgery, was in intensive care for 3 days and in a nice private room for another 4 days all for about 210,000 THB.  The lead surgeon and my team of 3 MDs & 3 students would visit every day.  He said that I would have been dead if I'd waited another month,  It's now a year later and I feel much better than before.

 

I mentioned I went with my wife.  It's REALLY important to go with a Thai person.  The procedures & paperwork are complicated and you have to do things yourself normally a nurse would do (like measure your own height, weight, and blood pressure.) You have to carry your own records from one dept, to another.  You sometimes have to pay for the last procedure before you can go on, sometimes not. The hospital buildings are enormous and FULL of people.  It's like being in a Dicken's novel : lines and lines of wheel chairs and gurneys snaking their way everywhere. So I'm really grateful to my wife navigating all that for me and for being my companion during the hours of waiting. Remember this is a govt. subsidized hospital, customer service is not there strong point.  Your time is not important to them,  You will spend LOTS of time waiting. 

 

All in all I'm  very grateful Thailand made this service available to me, it literally saved my life.  I'm also very grateful for all the care I got from the doctors, nurses, and staff.  BTW Thai nurses tend to be delightful.

[tonray]

12 hours ago, Formaleins said:

I have a "limited" budget with a family to support

What does your insurance cover ?

[2009]

11 hours ago, 2009 said:

What was the result of your last thread? Have the walking problems persisted?

 

Could it be related to this?

 

https://forum.thaivisa.com/topic/1163780-cramps-numbness-trouble-walking/

 

And what ever happened to those bubbles on your wrist? Did they become painful or stay painless? Did they burst or form open sores/ulcers? How did they go away? Have you had more since?

 

Edit: I will just call it now. If you have had skin ulcers and neuro problems, you could have tertiary Syphilis (that said, either of these symptoms on their own also could be that)

 

 

Wouldn't be a bad idea just to get a VDRL test before the expensive MRI/CAT scan just to rule out this possibility. Cheap, results in one hour, and at least you will know.

 

 

[NCC1701A]

15 hours ago, 2009 said:

 

Impressive.

 

I am half your age and feel unhealthy. I even have pre-hypertension.

 

What's your lifestyle like?

stopped drinking soft drinks when i was 25. this single lifestyle change was probably the most important. 

no white bread after 30 yo. 

moderate exercise since I was 35. cut way down on red meat. 

stopped eating white refined sugar when I was 40. No cake or deserts. No fast food at all. 

eat fish and chicken. 

six drinks of alcohol a year.

extremely low carbs since I was 50. Very little bread, pasta, potatoes. 

and of course everyone laughs but I have a lot of sex all the time which is very healthy for you.  

 

[scubascuba3]

5 minutes ago, NCC1701A said:

stopped drinking soft drinks when i was 25. this single lifestyle change was probably the most important. 

no white bread after 30 yo. 

moderate exercise since I was 35. cut way down on red meat. 

stopped eating white refined sugar when I was 40. No cake or deserts. No fast food at all. 

eat fish and chicken. 

six drinks of alcohol a year.

extremely low carbs since I was 50. Very little bread, pasta, potatoes. 

and of course everyone laughs but I have a lot of sex all the time which is very healthy for you.  

 

Diet is like a religion, just choose which one and believe.

 

 

[NCC1701A]

1 hour ago, scubascuba3 said:

Diet is like a religion, just choose which one and believe.

no. 

there is nothing good a white refined sugar. it causes inflammation in every cell of your body.  

 

[KannikaP]

20 hours ago, Formaleins said:

Yes, I smoke and drink...... don't we all,

No we f***ing do not.