I had to take a break from blogging earlier in the month due to a sudden and unexpected bout of ill-health. Earlier in June, I woke up with blurred vision in one eye, and it continued to deteriorate over the next 48 hours. After a quick call to NHS24, I was encouraged to go to A&E who were unable to find any sign of trauma or infection and made an urgent referral to ophthalmology for the next day. After a full visual test on both eyes, including scans and eye-drops, the ophthalmologist diagnosed me with optic neuritis (inflammation of the optic nerve), and has made a referral to neurology as it can be the first symptom of Multiple Sclerosis. M.S isn’t hereditary, but I do have a slightly higher risk of developing it as my mum has it. The good news is that I don’t have any other symptoms, and the ophthalmologist expects my vision to return fully in the next couple of months.
It’s been hard not to worry about the worst case scenarios but we don’t know anything for certain yet, and I’m trying to keep calm and carry on counting my blessings. The NHS receives a lot of criticism but I’m incredibly grateful for it, my access to A&E and ophthalmology was quick and all the staff I saw were diligent and compassionate.
Losing vision in one eye has been humbling, unable to drive or work for the last couple of weeks, I’ve been housebound and have been grateful for simple home comforts. I’ve enjoyed spending time in the garden, and I’ve been very grateful for Mara’s companionship. Cats have a reputation for being aloof, but Mara is such a sociable girl, and she’s relished all the extra cuddles and attention while I’ve been at home. Most of all, I’ve been grateful for my husband, who has taken this latest setback in his stride, and has been an unwavering source of support and reassurance.
My vision is slowly returning, and I’m very much trying to counteract my fears with gratitude, but these last few weeks have been a reminder not to take anything for granted because life can change in an instant. Be well, and have a lovely week. X
You are right. We don’t know what is around the corner. I’m glad that you are noticing improvements in your vision. I hope all will be well. X
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Thank you. X
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Woh! That must have been a real shocker and very scary. Do insist on an MRI asap. Ms isn’t the end of the world, but getting on the right drugs quickly is important to prevent damage and live a long healthy life ( I have it too! ) xx
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Thanks, this is such a reassuring message. Hoping I won’t have to wait too long for an MRI and answers. It was a horrible shock but trying to stay positive and not let catastrophic thinking get the best of me. Xx
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Thats the way! Find out what it is and start on a disease modifying treatment asap if it is MS and then carry on with your life xx
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So sorry to hear you are going through this! Sadly this is in my family also. I hope that you recover quickly and remain in good health. (Also, your cat is adorable!).
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Thank you so much, and yes she is – though I’m biased! ☺️ X
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Oh goodness, I really hope you are ok. Sounds like you are on the mend and lovely Mara is helping with your recovery. You are so right how life can change in an instant. xxx
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Thank you, improving slowly but much better than it was. Yeah, none of us know what’s coming next so it’s important to appreciate the good stuff while we can. Xx
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So sorry to hear of this, wishing you all the best for a speedy and thorough recovery!
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Thank you so much. X
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Oh I am so sorry to hear that. Sounds like you have been through the mill. I hope you are starting to feel a little better now ? It’s so true though..we never know what is round the corner and it makes you appreciate all the little things even more. Look after yourself xx
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Many thanks, I’m still recovering slowly but vision is already much better than it was at its worst. A health scare really helps put things in perspective. Xx
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Sending much love. You are blessed with your husband and Mara, and a positive, resilient disposition. X
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What a challenging time for you. I am so glad you were investigated quickly. Sending lots of healing hugs your way.
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Oh my goodness. Hope your vision returns soon. 🙂
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Thank you, still not fully recovered but much better than it was. 😊
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Yay!!
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That is so scary how our health can turn on us in a moments notice. I am happy to hear you are beginning to recover. Lots of healing thoughts and hugs!
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Thanks. 😊 It’s easy to take health for granted until we lose it. X
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