Still feeling very tired, weak & zombi-like. Balance is still not good.

Still sweating at night & dreams seem to be going through episodes of my life how odd! Still no movement in left side of face. Still dribbling. Mum tried phoning hospital to see whether Dr had been in touch with physio dept. Physio dept made enquiries.

Started the week badly with a day in bed on Sunday. I just felt really ill again. Wiery, groggy & wobbly. Appointment came through to see physio on Monday. Excellent!

Had few mins ultra sound at hospital. The Dr had written down Bells Palsy (facial paralysis) not RHS. The Physiotherapist showed us a poster of the facial nerves, which have been effected, which was very interesting. She explained that the rash usually follows the line of the nerve & looked through my hair but none could be seen. Mum asked the poor woman endless questions! (I know she’s worried!) The physio suggested having acupuncture & gave me a leaflet to read. She recommended some exercises to do such as opening & closing the eye using my hand to help, snarling, flaring nostrils, smiling, blowing, whistling & practising saying letters B,P, L,N & I added W & F which I have problems with too. The kids would love to see me practising my letters! She asked me to go again the following day.

Physio pointed out that RHS attacks a different ganglia of nerves to Bells Palsy. This group of nerves is deep inside the head behind the ear (which effects balance & taste as well as the facial muscles) whereas BP is caused by group of nerves in front of the ear (these just effect facial muscles). Had a 20min acupuncture treatment next day. First time I’ve had it. I had an initial consultation. The question that really made me chuckle was Do I have a needle phobia? Not yet! replied the physio. Hee-hee! Needles did not really hurt just felt a little prick. They were inserted at various points on my face. I felt very relaxed and sleepy but could not doze because I could only shut one eye which was very annoying. Needles didn’t want to come out! Apparently that’s a sign of tension in the muscles. Booked appointment for next week. Great! Will start to wear a patch instead of using tape, it might make life a bit easier.

Felt giddy when I went to bed and lay down. Have to be sure to move my head slowly & lie down steadily. Had several nights of this. Finding it hard to get to sleep at night but I am tired. Was still awake at 1pm one night & woke next morning feeling really nauseous. I didn’t dare move. After another couple of hours kip I was ok.

Had several outings this week with walks on Poppit Sands, at Aberporth and Mwnt.