After a few days of emailing the NP who was my line of communication with the neuro, and literally begging for an extension on my leave, I was granted my request. I also set an appointment for 09/02/04 to see her and possibly the neuro to discuss my balance and pain problems.

The past few days had been very stressful and frustrating. I didn’t think that getting an extension was going to be such an issue. Apparently, the neuro was having a difficult time feeling that he could “justify” my leave extension since my facial paralysis had improved, and the 3 month date had arrived. He felt that the BP seemed resolved. I had to impress upon him that my condition was more complicated and involved than typical BP.

This battle with the neuro turned quite emotional, as I began to realize just how much impact this condition was having on my life. It was indeed debilitating at this point. But, I still felt certain that I only needed a few more weeks to get well enough to return to work.

I was anxious for my appointment. Hoping for some answers to the lingering pain, balance, fatigue and hearing related issues. That “Ramsay Hunt Syndrome” kept creeping into my thoughts, but I knew that all I had were complications with my BP.

Appointment with the NP. Along with the increased pain and vertigo attacks, I had been experiencing regular aching in the forehead and back of head and temple region. There had been some previous discussion about possible migraines, and the NP indicated the possibility of “rebound” headaches from all of the Tylenol I was taking for the pain. See, any pain associated with the BP (which is very rare anyway) should have subsided.

After we discussed the various aspect of my condition, we turned the focus on my vertigo and constant problems with balance. Then the NP discussed everything with the neuro, apparently emphasizing the balance problems. Being uncertain as to what was causing the problems, they decided to refer me to a balance specialist.

I felt better after the appointment, and had a sense of hope that we would get to the cause of the balance issues. And, I also knew that it had become very apparent to the NP that granting my leave extension was indeed “justified”.

And, whew! No mention of Ramsay Hunt Syndrome!