stroke

cataylo · 02-24-2008, 01:41 AM

I was on BCP for PCOS and had a stroke does anyone have helpful hints on how to proceed?

Future Doc Cyster · 02-24-2008, 02:13 AM

I'm really sorry to hear about your stroke. ((((Hugs)))

Some cysters have luck controlling their symptoms with meds such as Metformin and Spironolactone. Other options would include alternative remedies such as cinnamon, saw pametto, soy, etc.

Moonshoot · 02-24-2008, 02:02 PM

OMG! I am so sorry about your stroke. I hope you are okay.

The first step should be to get on Metformin and go from there. Good luck!!

Do you mind telling us what your symptoms were, so that we will know for ourselves?

I just got an email about the warning signs of a stroke. You are supposed to remember the first three letters: STR: Stand, Talk and Raise arms. If you have trouble doing any of these at all, then race to the ER for treatment.

soulfulqween · 02-24-2008, 02:09 PM

I am curious to know what other health conditions you have and or what other pcos symptoms you have. And also what is your family medical history? Mom, Dad, bros and sisters; that is if you have them and if you know what they have.

Knowing that would give me a better idea on advice to suggest.

newfiecyster · 02-24-2008, 02:13 PM

I had a stroke way back in 1992 when i was on provera. I can not take hormones. I do take metformin for my pcos and it is doing me wonders. if you need anyone to talk to i am here/ i so knows what you are going though hugs

cataylo · 02-25-2008, 11:50 PM

First of all thank you all for your concerns.

I was Dx with PCOS in 1996. SInce then they gave me BCP's to put a bandaid on the situation. (Excess hair on face, chin, breasts, acne, weight gain, mood swings and depression, lack of interest in sex, and Insulin resistance HA1C 5.7) This doesn't run in the family though my sister had a hard time conceving and had to have her cervix stiched shut to keep the baby from miscarriage she was also on ful bed rest most of the pregnancy.

I august I had my stroke. I worked the early shift (5-2) Around 9 I became disoriented and and dizzy feeling like I was walking to the right kind of slanted. I worked through it and gradually it became lessened and I completed my day. I worked late because my mind was foggy and nothing was clear mentally. After arriving home I took a nap and felt mush better so I want for a walk with my husband and during the walk I could not form a complete sentence and would begin the same way many times and just could not find any words. I knew what I wanted to say but could not. My husband thought I was just tired and at this point I had a headache I was confused again and did not know enough to demand to go to the ER. I did however take an asprin for the headache. This was my saving grace. The next day I was stilll having trouble with words and numbers. I called the doctor and got an appointment and though they told me a specific time I was so confused I could not write the right appointment time and got there late and they told me to either come back the next day or go to the ER. I elected to go to the ER. All of the issues resolved fully thank god!

I did have some warning signs!!! I had TIA's which were like the sensation of beeing in very bright sunlight then going into the house where it's darker where you can see thinks but there is a bright light haze still while your eyes adjust. I went to the eye doctors and was misdiagnosed with either migraines or high blood pressure both which I was confidant I did not have so I did not pursue it further. If you have any symptoms like this or temporary verbal issues go to your doctors it might be a TIA (mini stroke) So you can avoid a actual stroke like i had.

Right now I am on metformin 500 mg once per day, A was on the mini pill but it caused more emotional issues so I am not on any hormones, I am taking niacin for high collesterol, singulair for asthma, wellbutrin for depression, and an asprin for thinning blood.

My women's doctor told my that my PCOS symptoms might just be my lot in life. She used those exact words! I burst out into tears right there.

Thanks again for the concern I appreciate it and hope that I can help others aviod this.

soulfulqween · 02-26-2008, 12:35 AM

I am so sorry what an ordeal.

So do you actually have high blood pressure?

You can always try a natural approach to help with your symptoms.

Moonshoot · 02-26-2008, 12:42 AM

My goodness! That is so scary.

I would suggest that you increase your Met gradually to at least 1500mg. Go up to 1000 for a month or so, and then add the last pill after you feel fairly normal. 1500mg is the minimum effective dose. MAKE SURE you get Met ER...the extended release version. It has few side effects and is much easier on your tummy.

I cannot take BCPs for emotional reasons as well. Can you say "psychotic temper tantrums"....LOL. Anyway, you could try Spiro or go the herbal route. The Met probably won't make all of your symptoms go away, but it will help control the IR, prevent diabetes and make you healthier in general.

I just found a wonder Reproductive Endocrinologist and we are working to find the solution for me. Maybe you could start looking for an RE or regular Endo?

cataylo · 02-27-2008, 09:25 PM

No actually the mini strokes or TIA's were a temporary situation where my blood pressure was elevated. As I understand it your blood pressure increases for two reasons in a stroke/ TIA. One was to increase the blood flow to help with the area that is not getting enough blood and the second is to increase the anticlotting factors ablility to touch the clot and work on it.

Other then that I have normal BP.

I'll talk to my doctor about the MET and I was considering a Endocrinologist. Thank you again.