Friday, February 27, 2015

Story of Cathy who too is affected by NAION

On Feb 22, 2015, at 4:59 PM, Cathy Deman cfdeman@gmail.com [naion] 
<naion@yahoogroups.com> wrote: 


  
Hi Mark: 

I had my NAION episode in 2010 (memorial weekend) and sought medical 
attention as soon as I got back to work and the dr office was open.  
The opthamologist said I had swelling, the family doc sent me to 
neurologist who then ordered MRI of spine,C spine and Orbits and a 
spinal tap to rule out MS (multiple scerlosis) 


Those came back negative (yeah!) but I then went to two more neuro 
opthamalogists and the second one confirmed the NAION diagnosis.   
After about 5 weeks I finally had something I could call it.  I have 
not had a recurring attack in the other eye and it has been almost 5 
years.  The first 6 months was the hardest but now I function just fine 
and my dominent good eye has taken over and I can drive, work and do 
all the things I like. 


The main thing is it is not a death sentence and surround yourself with 
friends and try to get back t o all your activities as soon as 
possible.  I took 5 weeks off work, but then went back. (it was mainly 
psycological time off, not physical)  It was hard dealing with the 
computer at first, but I made accomodations at my work that made it 
easier for me (larger montior, different lighting etc).   


I keep my head up and try not to sweat the samll stuff.  My family was 
a greta help and my friends were supportive (when they finally stopped 
asking me if my eye was any better!!!!)  It's not getting better ever.  
But you do learn how to cope and itsd amazing how your brain takes over 
and compensates with your good eye.   


Keep the faith! 


Cathy in Michigan 

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