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Subject: Re: Stroke opinions
Forum: The Neurology and Neurosurgery Forum
Topic Area:
Posted by CCF Neurosurgery MD on October 27, 1997 at 13:30:16:
In Reply to: Stroke opinions posted by Dan Burger on October 25, 1997 at 13:26:41:
: My sister was hospitalized about 6 months ago after experiencing slurred speech and a gradual paralysis in her right hand. During and after her hospitalization, there were varying diagnoses from several physicians, including Dr. Furlan at CCF. She had some testing done at CCF.
Our family was ultimate convinced that she had a minor stroke (vasculitis and lupus were other options). After being released from the hospital, she went through physical and speech therapies, which helped, but did not eliminate, both the speech and hand difficulties. It was decided at that time that the monitoring of her condition could be done locally, which meant primary care in Wooster and specialized care in Canton.
On Wednesday, Oct. 22, she experienced an episode of increased word slurring. The next day her speech seemed better. She had an MRI in Wooster that indicated nothing had changed since her last MRI. Saturday, Oct. 26, she experienced another episode of increased slurred speech and had difficulty swallowing. She was admitted to Aultman Hospital in Canton - same hospital
where she was treated back in April.
Our family is unsure whether this is the right place for her to be, as opposed to the CC. We are also wondering whether Dr. Furlan should be consulted while she is in the Canton hospital. Is this a request we can make of the neurologist in charge in Canton? Can we request the results of all tests be forwarded to Dr. Furlan?
We would appreciate some guidance. Thanks.
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Dear Dan, From what you describe, it sounds like your sister did have a stroke in the
past. Speech difficulties and right sided hand weakness are typical signs
of a stroke on the left side of the brain. The recurrent episodes of slurred
speech and now swallowing difficulties are of concern in that they may suggest
that your sister is continuing to have strokes, or at least TIA's. The broad
question remains as to what is causing the strokes and how to prevent them.
It would be difficult to fathom a guess at the cause for your sister's
continued problems without knowning her medical history. You should speak to your sister's neurologist as to his or her impression of
the situation in light of the history and tests that have been done. If you
do not find reasonable answers you may choose a second opinion. The Cleveland
Clinic and Dr. Furlan are both very well regarded in the area of stroke
neurology. Hospital transfers are always an option, if necessary. Dr. Furlan
may be reached by calling 800-223-2273. Ask the operator to connect you to
the neurology desk. Good luck.
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