OpenHealth Q&A

Can anyone guess what I went through?

At 35 years old and slightly above average weight (with a BMI hovering around 26), I've recently embarked on a journey to shed some pounds. In early 2023, an unexpected viral infection hit me with a vengeance. I experienced a fever that soared to 103 degrees, leaving me in a haze so disorienting that I declined my girlfriend’s efforts to take me to the emergency room. All COVID tests turned up negative, and I experienced no respiratory issues during that time. Around a week later, I began to feel better and returned to work. While driving on the highway, I suddenly recognized troubling signs akin to those of a stroke. I swiftly pulled over and dialed 911. As the situation worsened—complicated by a panic attack—the emergency responders arrived, assuming I was either under the influence of drugs or merely overwhelmed by anxiety. Clearly, a panic attack doesn’t explain the numbness on one side of my body. Eventually, I was transported to the ER without any urgency, as there were no flashing lights or sirens. After a contrasting CT scan ordered by the attending physician, it was revealed that I had significant venous clotting around my brain. Later that night in the neuro ICU, doctors assessed my condition and determined that a simple heparin drip wouldn’t suffice. They proceeded to sedate me and deploy a catheter. A surgeon later informed me that while he had successfully cleared the new clots, I had a limited area of scar tissue near my brain—referred to as a rough patch of endothelium. Consequently, I am now on Eliquis for the foreseeable future. After being discharged, I faced a myriad of neurological complications, even though there were no signs of hemorrhaging or physical damage. I regularly encountered debilitating vagus responses without any clear trigger, a condition that persisted for about 15 months. My blood pressure was out of whack, specifically with my diastolic reading consistently around 90, which was unusual for me at that time. Though my BP remains somewhat unstable, it isn't dangerous now. Currently, I'm feeling almost back to normal, but the recovery took a surprising amount of time given that I didn’t suffer any vascular ruptures. My medical team was at a loss for explanations; hematology suspected I may have had an extreme negative reaction to the viral infection. Could the unusual neurological symptoms stem from a relatively minor stroke that was detected early? Or was I potentially facing post-viral sequelae from an unknown virus? What other common viruses, aside from flu or COVID, might have instigated these complications? Now, after more than two years, I’m mostly well. Occasionally, I may feel a strange tingling in my leg around the affected nerves, though it rarely intensifies. I find myself becoming quite anxious whenever I catch a cold or get the sniffles.

Answers (1)

9/13/2025, 4:50:35 AM

OpenHealth AI

It sounds like you have been on a challenging health journey, and I appreciate you sharing your experience. It’s encouraging to hear that you are feeling mostly well now. Let’s address your concerns regarding the neurological symptoms and the possibility of post-viral complications.

Main Points:

1. Your past viral infection and subsequent stroke-like symptoms are concerning but not uncommon, particularly in the context of clotting issues.
2. Post-viral symptoms can sometimes mimic neurological disorders or lead to long-term health changes.
3. Common viruses that can cause similar complications include Epstein-Barr virus and cytomegalovirus, among others.

Explanation:

Given your experience, it’s possible that the significant venous clotting in your brain was related to the viral infection you had. Viral infections can lead to inflammation and changes in blood coagulability, which in turn can cause clotting. The neurological symptoms you’re experiencing—like the tingling in your leg and the vagus responses—might be related to the clotting or the brain's adjustment post-incident.

Regarding your stress about new colds or infections, it's understandable given your history. While many viral infections can lead to complications, the body usually handles them effectively, and your ongoing recovery is a positive sign.

Actionable Next Steps:

1. Monitor Symptoms: Keep a diary of any neurological symptoms you experience, noting their frequency and intensity. This can help identify patterns or triggers.

2. Manage Stress and Anxiety: Consider techniques such as mindfulness, meditation, or gentle yoga to help mitigate anxiety when you experience illness symptoms.

3. Regular Check-ups: Schedule follow-ups with your healthcare providers, including your neurologist and hematologist, to monitor your progress and any potential residual effects of your previous condition.

4. Stay Informed but Cautious: Educate yourself on common viral infections and their symptoms but focus on maintaining a healthy routine and lifestyle.

5. Discuss Vaccinations: Speak with your doctor about any vaccinations that could protect you from common viruses, especially since you've had complications previously.

Your recovery journey is individual, and it's important to recognize that healing from such experiences can take time. If you have any further questions or need support with managing any specific symptoms, please let me know!