Had a stroke under anaesthetic 4yrs ago last year started drunk type symptoms every day never been to a stroke unit since having my stroke was discharged 2 days after coming home didn't ever see anyone as was kept in surgical ward before being discharged after operation on tummy been to Dr's with this but keep getting rejected from neurology dept after referrals

Hi Shirley,

We are sorry to hear about the stroke you had 4 years ago while you were under anaesthetic for a tummy operation and the ongoing impacts you are having with peripheral eye damage and pins and needles to your left side. It must have been an unexpected shock for you. It’s disappointing to hear you didn’t receive any follow up for your stroke at the time.

It sounds like you have seen your GP about your concerns and ongoing stroke impacts and that they have referred you to the hospital neurology department for an appointment, but this has been declined. Have you spoken to the neurology outpatient clinic to ask for a reason for why they have declined to see you? It might help to get some clarity around this.

The other option we would recommend is getting a referral to a private neurologist. Your GP can complete this referral and refer you to someone local.

With the impacts you are describing an Occupational Therapist with stroke or neurological experience may be able to assist. They can look at your sensory changes (pins and needles) and vision loss (peripheral eye damage) and provide therapy and strategies to better manage these impacts and the challenges you may face with your day to day tasks.

You can talk with your GP about finding an occupational therapist as they may know someone in the local area. Or you may also search online here using your location. It is also a good idea to talk with your GP about whether you might be eligible for the Chronic Disease Management Plan, which entitles you to a number of subsidized sessions with health professionals such as occupational therapists. There will still be an out-of-pocket cost associated with the OT session, but it will be less than paying for a private service. If you have Private Health Insurance, you might also be able to access an OT at a rebated rate, so check with your insurer. 

Guide Dogs Australia or Vision Australia may also be able to support you with your visual changes.  Guide Dogs Australia is a great resource for vision information and support nation-wide. Each state have their own website and provide a neuro mobility service. Vision Australia is also a good resource. They can help with strategies, support and aids to compensate for any vision loss. You can self refer or your Occupational Therapist can also further discuss this with you.

Our website also has a lot of information on impacts post stroke including vision and sensory changes. See links below:

Vision loss after stroke fact sheet | Stroke Foundation - Australia

Vision and senses | enableme - stroke recovery and support

Touch and sensation | enableme - stroke recovery and support

We hope this information is of some help.

 If you would like more information, please don’t hesitate to contact us on StrokeLine 1800 787 653 or email strokeline@strokefoundation.org.au. We are available Monday to Friday 9am to 5pm AEST. 

Wishing you all the best,

Bec – StrokeLine