On July 12, 2024, I started to have the worst headache I have ever experienced. I was nauseous and had blurry vision on and off, and I felt like one of my eyes was about to pop out of my face.
I went to the ER twice. Both times they treated me with the “migraine cocktail” that did absolutely nothing. I was in so much pain all I could do was cry. They didn’t believe my pain and kept assuming I wanted stronger meds because I wanted to abuse them.
When I went to the ER for the second time, I demanded that they give me a CT because there had to be something wrong. Immediately, they noticed a “brain bleed” and transferred me to a larger hospital.
There, we found that it was not a brain bleed but cerebral venous sinus thrombosis (CVST). I had multiple large clusters of blood clots in multiple veins of my brain.
All of the providers were shocked that I was still able to normally walk and talk. I was immediately transferred to the ICU where I spent six long days.
My risk factors were estrogen-based birth control and a recent pregnancy. We are waiting on the results to determine if I have a clotting disorder.
My life has done a complete turnaround. No more roughhousing with my sons. I’m no longer the loud, fun, life of the party anymore. Life is just pretty boring. I now have to give myself shots twice a day, something I haven’t quite gotten used to yet.
This experience has taught me to advocate for myself at all times. Ask for second opinions and don’t let them discharge you if you don’t feel comfortable with it.
