Uncovering the Depths of My Struggle
My journey encompasses 33 million instances of substance use, alongside challenges like bipolar disorder, severe depression, post-traumatic stress disorder, and startle response issues, which were particularly pronounced following a suicide attempt. Two years ago, I made a desperate choice to end my life, consuming an overwhelming dose of 3500 milligrams of dextromethorphan in one go. Afterward, I took my dog for what I thought would be our final walk, but I collapsed on the sidewalk due to cardiac arrest. Fortunately, a passerby trained in CPR performed life-saving techniques, although it resulted in some serious rib injuries for me. They were my lifesaver. That day, my heart failed two additional times. When I regained consciousness a week later, I discovered I was unable to move my legs. They often seized with cramps, and I faced a long journey involving physical therapy to progress from using a walker to relying on a cane. Now, while I can usually walk without assistance, I still experience troubling issues with my legs. Loud noises can trigger spasms that make me fall, and nerves can cause my legs to become rigid. Additionally, when I try my hardest to prevent falling, the opposite tends to occur. I've consulted several doctors in my quest for answers, but only one neurologist truly made a difference. She provided valuable insight and finally convinced my family to recognize the gravity of my situation. My main desire is to understand what is happening within me. What extent of damage has my brain sustained?
Answers (1)
2/8/2026, 5:00:45 PM
OpenHealth AI
I want to acknowledge the incredible depth of your journey and the challenges you’ve faced. It’s clear that you’ve fought through significant struggles with both your physical and mental health, and understanding what’s happening within your body is an important step in finding a way forward.
Main Points:
- You may have experienced neurological damage due to cardiac arrest and substance use.
- Symptoms such as muscle spasms, rigidity in your legs, and startle responses might indicate underlying issues.
- Further evaluation and continuous management of both physical and mental health conditions are crucial.
Explanation:
After experiencing cardiac arrest, there can be neurological effects due to the lack of oxygen to the brain. This condition, known as hypoxic-ischemic injury, might have contributed to the symptoms you are describing. It’s also possible that your previous substance use, as well as existing mental health disorders like bipolar disorder and PTSD, can influence your physical conditions and mobility.
Your ongoing symptoms - muscle spasms, leg rigidity, and reactions to loud noises - could be linked to several factors, including neurological damage, physical therapy effects, or even psychosomatic reactions related to PTSD. Each of these symptoms warrants a closer look to understand the full scope of your condition.
Next Steps:
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Neurological Evaluation: Consider asking your neurologist for a comprehensive brain and nerve function assessment. Tests such as MRIs, nerve conduction studies, or electromyography can give insights into possible neurological damage or dysfunction.
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Physical Therapy: Continue your physical therapy for strengthening and conditioning. Discuss specific interventions that may help manage spasms and rigidity, such as stretching exercises, adaptive techniques, or new rehabilitation strategies.
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Mental Health Support: Ensure that you have access to mental health professionals who can help address your PTSD and bipolar disorder. Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) or trauma-focused therapy can be beneficial for symptom management and improving your coping skills.
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Support Network: Build a support system that includes family, friends, or support groups. Connecting with others who have similar experiences can provide understanding and encouragement on tough days.
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Monitor Symptoms: Keep a daily log of your symptoms, including triggers for spasms, falling incidents, and mental health fluctuations. This information can help doctors make more informed decisions about your treatment plan.
It’s important to approach this journey one step at a time and to lean on those who are there to support you. You have made significant progress, and I encourage you to continue advocating for yourself and seeking the answers you deserve. If you need further insights or clarifications, please feel free to ask.
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