So my daughter and I showed up at my doctors' offices ready to begin the process that would result in brain surgery known as deep brain stimulation (DBS). I was medicine free so that the docs would have a base line against which they would measure the degree of anticipated benefits of the DBS.
I believe that if there is a big difference between meds vs. no meds, the expectations for worthwhile benefits justify going through brain surgery notwithstanding the risks. What happened surprised everyone in the room, that is, two doctors, a student intern, my daughter and me.
One of the doctors proceeded to administer physical movement and coordination. The test was first conducted without meds and the expectation was that symptoms would be evident and significant. The only problem was that I was able to perform the movements without much difficulty.
So when they did the same test with the aid of medicine about 45 minutes later, it was easier, but not that much different than without meds.
The test results implied that at this point in time, DBS would have insufficient benefits for me to undergo brain surgery. The doctors said that it may still be an option , but not for a while.
I attribute the test results without meds to my rigorous exercise program of an average of 60 to 90 minutes of intense exercise five or six days a week, with at least 30 minutes of light workout on any day when I don't exercise intensely.
The next installment will cover some things I learned from this experience.
Enjoy the photo of Hudson Yards at Midtown Manhattan.
I believe that if there is a big difference between meds vs. no meds, the expectations for worthwhile benefits justify going through brain surgery notwithstanding the risks. What happened surprised everyone in the room, that is, two doctors, a student intern, my daughter and me.
One of the doctors proceeded to administer physical movement and coordination. The test was first conducted without meds and the expectation was that symptoms would be evident and significant. The only problem was that I was able to perform the movements without much difficulty.
So when they did the same test with the aid of medicine about 45 minutes later, it was easier, but not that much different than without meds.
The test results implied that at this point in time, DBS would have insufficient benefits for me to undergo brain surgery. The doctors said that it may still be an option , but not for a while.
I attribute the test results without meds to my rigorous exercise program of an average of 60 to 90 minutes of intense exercise five or six days a week, with at least 30 minutes of light workout on any day when I don't exercise intensely.
The next installment will cover some things I learned from this experience.
Enjoy the photo of Hudson Yards at Midtown Manhattan.
No comments:
Post a Comment