I had a stroke 5 months ago due to a clot travelling through pfo in the heart. I’m now on clopidogrel but haven’t yet gotten the pfo closure.
I continue to get weird pain and sensations in part of my head and behind my left eye which causes quite a lot of anxiety. Does anyone any tips on how to ease the anxiety and ways to manage it.
Also I am unsure wether it’s safe or not to be travelling on a short flight (30mins-1 hour). Would anyone have any advice/ know wether or not it’d be okay?
Hi @orla3333 and welcome to the forum. Sorry you’ve had cause to join us. I think a fair few of us get weird sensations in our head after our strokes but for many they ease over time. Anxiety is normal but you need to try not to worry as that will make your head pains etc worse. Try & do things you enjoy doing to take your mind off things or if your usual activity isn’t possible try something like colouring / painting. A bit of mindfulness or find something relaxing to do.
I can’t advise on the flying with a PFO although many people don’t know they have a PFO and go on holidays abroad etc. Getting insurance whilst waiting treatment is extremely difficult.
I flew 5 months after my stroke with no issues. I didnt have a PFO. I did check with my GP who said I was fit to fly. My advice is to check with your GP / Consultant.
Have a look at this leaflet too.
https://www.stroke.org.uk/stroke/life-after/going-on-holiday
Best wishes
Ann