How do I find relief for head pain? buzzing/brain noise? My wife researches for ideas for hours on the Internet. The scientific articles all say, "More research is needed." Why the lack of progress?

Hi Chris, So sorry to hear of your ongoing issues. It must be very frustrating! It sounds like you have tried various different avenues already that we would of suggested.

It's great that you are partaking in the online forums and blogs with other stroke survivors in the community who may be experiencing similar symptoms as yourself to gain advice and support.

Have you spoken to a Psychologist?  Have you tried Cognitive Behavioural therapy? If not this may be something to consider, in  looking at specific, achievable and relevant  coping strategies that  may help you deal with your current symptoms while you continue to look for answers or a solution. Keeping stress levels in check is also very relevant, as stress and worry can exacerbate any existing symptoms or concerns you are currently experiencing in your life..  It's always good to look at  what are some of the controllable measures that i have tried and tested to manage my stress levels that i can put in place that i know work." and practise these on a regular basis.

Good Luck and Best Wishes 

Alicia (StrokeLine)

Please give us a call at Strokeline on 1800787653 or email us direct at strokeline@strokefoundation .org.au if you would like to speak to a health professional directly .

Hi Chris,

Here are some comments from the community for you. I hope that they help:

Karen Michelle

My suggestion is that Chris reach out to Leeanne Carey and Brendan Haslam at the Florey Neurosciences Institute.

Without being able to quiz Chris about his head pain, buzzing and dizziness it's difficult to be sure what's going on for him, but it sounds like it might be a combination of the effects of sensory issues and neuropathic pain.

If Chis is not in Melbourne Leeanne and Brendan are likely to be able to connect him with colleagues in his home state.

It doesn't surprise me that a neurologist is unable to give Chris answers. Understanding of sensory issues is still emerging. It took me two years to connect with the right help and I got really lucky. I'm happy to answer any questions Chris or his wife have. Feel free to give them my email or phone contact details if they're not on FB and want to connect.

Emma A Warner

Sorry to hear of your challenges. Have you been assessed by a neurological physiotherapist who is trained in vestibular physiotherapy too? They could help you find the cause of your dizziness and help to manage it. You could look for someone on the Australian Physiotherapy Association website.

Best wishes to you.

Katie Mary

I’m sure you will get heaps of good information on here everyone is different, unfortunately you need to try different things and find what works for you, I’ve actually tried acupuncture and Botox, managing your time energy and fatigue is the best thing you can do I’m 13 years post stroke and I still haven’t found my answer but know anything stressful and overdoing things puts my body out of whack for days I’m determined to find my fit and never give up I wish you and your family all the best

Emma White

Hi Chris. I’m a speech pathologist who works with people after strokes.

1) great work on reaching out for help! Asking for support can be really hard, but it’s so important.

2) I can’t offer any advice about the sensations you’re experiencing

3) I think it’s a good idea to talk to some different neurologists. 4) The advice you have been given is probably 100% correct but it is important you feel listened to. It sounds like you don’t feel like that at the moment.

5) This probably means they are not the right neurologist for you.

6) The multidisciplinary approach is great - talk to the occupational therapist, speech pathologist or neuropsychologist for help with coping with your thinking changes so you can take more advantage of it.

7) Using things like phone alarms, schedules etc can help with applying strategies when it’s hard to remember by yourself.

8)Don’t forget your mood! If you’re down, it’s so much harder to cope with anything. Depression is really common after a stroke. Don’t be embarrassed to see a psychologist or similar to make sure you’re taking good care of your mental health.

9) Hang in there. While things may never be the same, things *do* get better. You’ve got this, and everyone here has got your back

Hi Chris,  lm new to the group.  I had my stroke 4 1/2 months ago.  Im 55.  I find walking "grounds" me.  I was anxious going on walks alone so l chose to walk around a busy shopping centre.  I see a neuro physiotherapist and she says walking is probably one of the best things l can do.  I have found it helps alot.  I was constantly dizzy not only occasionally.