TIA or migraine
Posted , 3 users are following.
Hi all, Im a 63yr old generally fit lady. I was driving to the gym when I noticed a w shape in my peripheral vision and I couldnt see the last letter of the numberplate of the car in front of me nor anything to the right of it. All was well on the left side. I had been lightheaded for a few days beforehand but otherwise well. I saw an opthalmologist, nothing found, had blood tests, all well, CT scan and ultrasound of my arteries in my neck all good. Im waiting for a 7 day ecg to check my heart. My cholesterol and blood sugar levels are normal. The only issue is my blood pressure had risen to 140/95 my normal is around 115/60 A stroke specialist told me it could be an occular tia or an occular migraine. Ive been put on lifelong treatment for tia clopidogrel and a statin, since taking the clopidogrel I feel like Ive got flu and cant function. I havent taken the statin yet as the doc said it was up to me if I want to try it as evidence for its usefullness is mixed. Im shocked to end up on medication for life as a precaution and wonder if anyone else has had a similar experience of this or any experience of taking clopidogrel?
0 likes, 6 replies
teresa96335 sue1754
Posted
Hi Sue.
I have been taking Clopidogrel for about 6 years following a TIA. I was also prescribed a statin, which I took initially, but stopped due to severe side effects.
I do have issues with Clopidogrel in that every day I feel nauseous, especially at night. (I take the tablet at bedtime) .
Because, I understand, that it is apparently dangerous to come off Clopidogrel once you have commenced taking it, I feel that having to put up with nausea is a reasonable compromise. If it prevents a stroke, then that too is worth the discomfort. I've learned to live with it and enjoy my life. I'm 71 by the way.
I hope this reply helps. I'm just thankful that I'm still around.
Best wishes, Teresa.
jason1098 sue1754
Posted
Hello Sue,
It may be worth a chat with your GP about the side effects you are suffering, Clopidogrel is not the only blood thinner out there and other medicines may give you a better experience.
sue1754 jason1098
Posted
thankyou Teresa and Jason for your replies, I have just taken a call from a community nurse from the stroke team and she is visiting me Wednesday (DR didnt mention this) so I will discuss this with her. Teresa I would also put up with some side effects, Ive had a bloody nose and bleeding gums too, those I could cope with. Many thanks and I wish you both well.
Sue
teresa96335 sue1754
Posted
Oh, my goodness, those are extreme side effects. You definitely need to see your GP.
jason1098 sue1754
Posted
Are they side effects or have you started a late career as a Cage Fighter?
Seriously though... talk it through with the community Nurse, she will be dealing with these issues on a daily basis, certainly more frequently than the GP, and will have the experience to advise on what is the best medication. Being married to a community Nurse I can confirm they know best. About everything.
sue1754 jason1098
Posted
Thanks for that Jason, its good to smile when your feeling scared for whats to come!
Yes Teresa the gums and nose bleeds are side effects, not brilliant is it !? I will see what the nurse says about the flu.
Regards Sue