a Near-Life Experience, Part I

From: Kirsten [mailto:]
Sent: Wednesday, April 23, 2008 10:19 PM
To: 'Kirsten'
Subject: a Little News & a Prayer Request

I am typing this from Fairview University of Minnesota Medical Center in Minneapolis, where the doctors have diagnosed me with two “dissecting aneurysms”, one on each carotid artery, just below my skull. (Just a little word of caution: I am on some pain medication as I am writing this, so feel free to giggle where called for. Apparently, yesterday when I was asked if there were incidents of stroke in my family history, I replied, “The man wanted to buy more cows, but he ran out of money.” So you are forewarned!)

Thankfully, my aneurysms are not in my brain and so are far less dangerous than those that are. Still, they do still pose a danger and need to be addressed immediately. A dissecting aneurysm is a tear that occurs in the wall of the artery so that blood gets in between the inner part of the wall and the outer part of the wall. As blood collects in the “pocket”, it restricts blood and oxygen flow to the brain and if it doesn’t make its way back into the artery, it will burst. Right now, in my aneurysm, the blood makes its way back into the artery through the inner wall. However, the doctors have found that my arterial walls, in general, are quite weak and so want to correct this problem.

The aneurysm on the left appears to be older and healed over. Blood flow to the brain is minimally restricted. The one on the right is new and blood and oxygen flow is fairly restricted, so it needs to be treated. I have had countless CAT scans (well, at least four), several MRI’s, one MRA, an angiogram, and an ultrasound of my head (weird experience!).

The hope is that this aneurysm can be healed medically—meaning through medicine. Currently I am taking one aspirin a day and a drug called Plavix. The aspirin thins the blood and the Plavix restricts the blood from forming platelets. However, if tomorrow’s contrast CAT scan shows poor blood flow or any other complications, then they will put in a stent (made up of material and fabric) to reinforce the weak wall of the artery. Needless to say, that is an invasive and more risky treatment and will require more time in the hospital.

I have been suffering with severe headaches for about four months. I thought they were sinus headaches and have been on a couple courses of antibiotics. Two weeks ago, I had a headache that was excruciating and included an aura. This motivated me to go to the doctor again last week. Tests were ordered for this week. However, last weekend I acquired several new symptoms, including a numb face, vertigo and nasusea. Monday evening I went to the ER near our house and then was transported to the main hospital just after midnight.

Given all that has happened, everything has gone very smoothly. Thad is staying with my Aunt Bea and Uncle Matt and is happy as a lark. Pete has been just incredible in every way. My time in the hospital has been the best I have ever experienced. The level of care and the kindness extended by the doctors and staff has helped Pete and me feel confident and supported.

Thoughts and prayers are very much appreciated. I will let you know how it all turns out once I find out—in the next few days.

Kϊrsten