Why have I developed mild to severe dizziness?

Hi Kingge

I’m glad to hear of your quick recovery in rehabilitation and sorry to hear about the ongoing issues you are experiencing.

All the information I am going to recommend to you, really comes down to having a good and supportive GP and allied health team. I would strongly recommend finding a new GP if you don’t feel comfortable talking to him or you feel he isn’t really listening, it might be beneficial to start speaking with friends and neighbours about who their GP is and making the transition that way. A good GP should make you feel confident that they are working alongside you to proactively manage your health and keep you as well as possible. However, you have stated that you live in a remote part of Tasmania, so I understand that your choices may be limited,  it may be useful to follow the guidelines about self-advocacy, here is the link https://strokefoundation.org.au/blog/2015/05/19/how-to-get-the-health-care-you-need, some pointers include; writing down any questions you have before the appointment and writing down answers, and getting someone to come with you to act as an advocate.

In regards to your questions, dizziness can be common after specific types of stroke, or could be due to a number of other factors for example a side effect of medication or a result of low blood pressure. The first step I would suggest is a review with your GP or Neurologist to find the cause of what’s going on and work out the best treatment moving forward. Your GP should check your blood pressure when sitting or lying versus standing to make sure there’s no postural drop. Additionally a Physiotherapist may also be able to assist as they can give you specific exercises to reduce the dizzy sensation. You say that you are only receiving physiotherapy every 3 weeks, it might be useful to get a home program - whereby the physiotherapist can give you some exercises to do at home.

In regards to the thigh muscles - have you changed your medications around lately? Again this is something that would be beneficial to talk to your GP about.

There is also a strong link between emotional changes after stroke. Stroke is a life changing event, and often stroke survivors experience different often complex layers of emotions, these feelings can range from relief at surviving and a new appreciation for having a second chance at life, through to the more challenging feelings - it’s important to seek support if you need. Your GP can talk through options and make a referral. Options may include Medicare subsidised services through a Chronic Disease Management Plan or Mental Health Care Plan to help you adjust with the changes you are experiencing.

There a few things happening for you at the moment - it might be beneficial for you to give us a call on StrokeLine 1800 787 653 (Mon-Fri 9am-5pm AEST).

Best wishes,

Shari (StrokeLine)

HI Shari, I am so grateful to you for responding to my post.  I found it interesting but more than anything it was such a comfort that there was someone out there who not only listened to me but was prepared to spend time crafting a reply.  A BIG THANK YOU.  I have considered changing my GP but the nearest alternative is 65 kms away.  I have now been assessed as medically fit to drive (which is wonderful - now I can do my own shopping!) but I find distance tiring as my car is manual.  Dilemma , dilemma.  I have tried and tried to consult with a neurologist buty to no avail.  Evidently in Hobart they are like 'hen's teeth' and booked out for months.  Dilemma Dilemma :)  That's enough from me.  Just a couple of short questions - 1) My ischeamic CVA was located in the brain stem that is all the information I have - is this significant?  2) My dizziness has morphed into vertigo and is accompanied by uncontrollable trembling to the point where I can't stand.  This is not frequent but frightens the poo out of me - is there good reason for my anxiety?  Definitely going now.  Regards Kingge (aka Bronwen)  Thank gosh for spell check