In fact I'm too depressive. My AVM has been diagnosed three monts ago and I had Gamma Knife a month ago. So, it's new for me. I have still risks like hemorrhage again and oedema (because of GK).
How all you deal with this situation? What should I do for being calm?
Any suggestions from the friends who had Gamma Knife?
I was diagnosed 4 yrs ago and still dealing treatment. I havent really found anything that really calms me but I dont dwell on the negatives as much anymore. I use to panic about swelling, bleeds etc. I just had my 2 nd gamma and have again started worrying about that stuff like its the first time. You do have to take it day by day not push yourself and remember your going to have days where you feel sad, mad, and such. I know this isnt much help, but just wanted you to know it gets eaiser as time goes on!!! Be strong and positive :) ~Andrea~
Hello Gul, welcome to the site. I didn't have Gamma so I can't speak to that. I do understand your fears, we all have them sometimes. I have found what calms me is yoga. If you've never tried it, I would recommend it. Just be sure to check with your doctor though before you do. As a side note, I was born in Ankara. My father was in the military and we were actually stationed in Turkey twice. The last time we were in Karamursel, near Istanbul. One of my fondest memories as a child was vacationing for a week on the Black Sea. Good luck to you in your treatments.
My wife Dawn as u see had Gamma Knife done. At the six month check up she was having problems with her right side July 28,2010. Doctor said she had some swelling gave a nine day pack of steriods and a blood thinner. And go for physical therapy. On Aug.8 2010 she had a major stroke, after 109 days in hospital and rehab she came home on Nov.24 very thankful she is home with us. Please at any sign of problems with any side of your body have a c-scan done not just a MRI when she arrived at Santa Barbara Cottage the Doctor said she should had been there three weeks ago. We are now doing home therapy main goal learn to talk again and walk on her own she is making great progress thanks to the pros in Santa Barbara. I dont mean to scare you just dont let a doctor tell u the reason u can hardly use your right side is because of the Gamma Knife. Wish u the best Doug.
Hi Gul, Your AVM is about half the size of mine. I was treated with GK in Sep 2010. GK has a very good one session success rate for avm's your size. My main new side effect since GK is mild foggy headaches that will last all day about 1-2 times per week, I also get tired easily which I think is due to the Keppra I am taking. I was expecting these symptoms so when they come on I think of them as a good thing that its working. I think the best thing to do is have a plan with someone you live with or know to get you to the ER that has your records asap if you have any major or sudden pain or dysfunctional problems and have your scheduled follow ups per your doctors plan. Expect the mild and gradual symptoms as these are normal and try not to worry.
I agree with Andrea, we do get good days and bad days. It does get easier as time goes on. I've been symptomatic for over 3 yrs. I basically live one day at a time. Everything I do, always depends on how I am feeling. I have learned (the hard way) to listen to my body and not push myself. Some days I can't even go to the store or dive my car. So,... I rest and do little things around my house. I meditate a lot. I will sometimes "pamper" myself with aroma therapy, soft music, maybe a hot bath. (I live alone) I've learned not to let the possibilities of a bleed bother me. I'm a strong believer if God wanted me with Him, I would already be there. :) When I found out about mine.... I got all of my affairs in order. That was one less thing I don't need to be concerned about. It does get emotionally tough at times. When it does, I try to keep myself busy doing something I enjoy.
Hi, Gul :-)
I was just recently dx'd with an AVM and have not received treatment yet. I am trying to be positive about this situation but it is really hard. I am so worried about a bleed or edema from treatment. I have been doing some deep breathing/meditation/prayer and that seems to help. I really don't have any great suggestions but I just wanted to send some light your way and let you know that you are not alone. Hugs
Thanks friends. I think everyone had same worries at the beginning and learned the ways of dealing with..
I will do! :)