EnableMe | enableme - stroke recovery and support

Curious to know if anyone else has had any auto-immune diseases or other things pop up since their stroke? Apparently they can be bought on by trauma?

I had always considered myself healthy with hardly any visits to my doctor my stroke, but since my ischemic stroke in April 2023 (caused by undiagnosed high blood pressure), I have been diagnosed with OLP (oral lichen planus) after a biopsy in my mouth (which has also spread to my body and scalp and other parts), been hospitalised for a bad case of vertigo (would not wish that on anyone) and had another biopsy and surgery (which turned out to be benign pollaps) when my period suddenly reappeared out of the blue after nothing for 2 years (sorry to the guys saying

I feel I am beginning to fall apart. Although these are not life threatening, they do make my life a little uncomfortable! Not sure if I am just so much more aware of things now (I listen to my body much more than I ever used to) or whether I have always had them in a milder form. Also whether any of this is bought on by my medication?

Hi Alison

I'm really sorry you're going through this, and I can only imagine how overwhelming it must feel to have so many health challenges arising after your stroke. It sounds like you've been hit with a series of unexpected and uncomfortable diagnoses, and I, and others in the EnableMe community hear your frustration and concern. It’s totally understandable to feel like your body is falling apart when you’re dealing with multiple health issues, especially after something as significant as a stroke.

The connection between trauma (like a stroke) and autoimmune diseases is still being studied, so we couldn’t comment too much on this, but I would certainly raise this when speaking with your GP and specialists, to get some medically informed input on this. Your increased awareness of your body is likely a double-edged sword—it’s great that you’re more in tune with your health, but I can imagine it also heightens your concerns, especially when new symptoms arise.

It’s also really common to wonder if medications are playing a role in how you are feeling, especially with possibly a range of new medications. Certain medications can sometimes have side effects that affect you in different ways. It would be worth discussing all of this with your doctor to see if any adjustments can be made. We are not medical here at StrokeLine, so always engage your GP and specialists in these discussions.

You’re definitely not alone in feeling like this, and many people who’ve experienced strokes find that their bodies react in unexpected ways afterward. I hope you’re able to find some clarity soon and that your doctors can help you navigate this complex situation. In the meantime, please be gentle with yourself. You’ve been through a lot, and it's okay to feel frustrated, but remember that you're still taking steps forward by staying aware of your health. You’ve taken a big step in reaching out and I am sure there will be others in the community that will hear and know what you are going through.

Given all you have been though, and feeling like you are falling apart, it might be helpful to reach out and talk to someone. Your GP can start by discussing a Mental Health Care Plan and access to Medicare rebated psychology sessions. This might help support you with all you have been going through, and the feelings of worry associated with your changing health. Everyone feels anxious or worried from time to time, but sometimes these feelings can be overwhelming and not easily controlled. Anxiety can be more than just feeling stressed, it’s a serious condition that makes it hard to cope with daily life, especially given your ongoing health issues. There are things that can help, such as talking therapy (Psychology) and sometimes medication can be prescribed. Doing what you are already doing such as reaching out to others, talking about what you are going through with family and friends, and making time to rest and relax is also important in your recovery.

You are also always welcome to reach out to us here on StrokeLine. You can give us a call on Ph 1800 787 653 or email us at strokeline@strokefoundation.org.au. We are open Monday to Friday 9am to 5pm AEDT and are more than happy to talk with you.

Warm regards

Siobhan (StrokeLine)

Hi Alison,

Love yourself - love love love everything about your self

I won't go I to my own experience of stroke and other health stuff - I wrote a lot of poetry in the last few years out of despair, frustration, a gentler way of looking at health language and the impact it leaves on us.

WHAT IF

What if the diagnosis was hope

And the therapy holistic

A prescription was love

Or the prediction was access

What if inclusion was the norm

And the possibilities made a shift towards what is needed to heal

Drifting in the breeze of my lived experience I pass branches of goodness just waiting to be given the opportunity to spread seeds of growth

Isn't it about time ?

Haven't we all waited long enough?

Peace and happiness

Nina aka Sue

Hi there Alison.

I can relate to what you are experiencing; totally. My ‘solution’ was to take a day at a time. You will get to a better place, but it takes time and kindness to yourself.

Take care.

Carrie