Need your comments please...... - Stroke Message Board

SJF · 07-02-2004, 02:23 AM

On May 14th, I woke up with my right hand "numb". My hand "flops" over from the wrist and I am not able to hold it up or use my fingers. Example: When I put my hand on the table, I cannot lift my fingers. My Dr. (General MD) thought I had a "mini-stroke" so he ordered an MRI and sent me to a Neurologist. My Blood Pressure has averaged 130/65 in the past but for several days after May 14th, it was elevated (highest was 168/98) and my feet and ankles were swollen. The MRI results were normal----does this mean I did not have a mini-stroke? It was several weeks before the Neurologist could see me. By that time, some of the feeling had returned but I still could not raise my fingers or hand. The Neurologist thought I had damaged the nerve by sleeping on my arm. He did not know why my blood pressure was elevated for the few days after this happened. He wanted me to return the end of July to see if there has been any improvement and possibly start Physical Therapy. He felt that I would regain use within 6 months to a year. It has now been over 6 weeks with no improvement. Loosing the use of my right hand is frustrating and I am very depressed. I would appreciate any comments/suggestions that you have.

JimJ · 07-03-2004, 03:50 AM

Mini strokes normally return to normal within a few minutes to a couple hours. It does sound like nerve damage. The BP could have been the anxiety of not being able to use your hand. This would make anyone anxious.

SJF · 07-03-2004, 05:21 AM

Thanks----I was very upset afterward and for several days, I just stayed on the couch afraid to move which would explain my swollen feet and ankles. I had not thought of that before.