‘Rare infection left my face paralysed – I feel like a broken woman’
Vicky Chadwick shares her story of facing a rare brain infection that resulted in paralysis of her face. The infection, known as encephalitis, causes brain swelling leading to temporary paralysis, seizures, and weakness. Vicky, a 53-year-old woman from Burgess Hill, West Sussex, initially experienced severe headaches in November. Despite seeking medical attention, her condition worsened as she struggled with dizziness and facial drooping, eventually losing the ability to speak.
- Vicky ignored headaches initially
- Admitted to hospital after dizzy spell
- Initially diagnosed with Bell’s palsy
- Later diagnosed with Ramsay Hunt syndrome
Hindered by a lack of proper diagnosis, Vicky’s infection spread to her brain, resulting in encephalitis, a condition that many doctors were unfamiliar with. She expresses the urgent need for increased awareness of such diseases to aid in timely diagnosis and improved prognoses. Though Vicky is expected to make a full recovery, the journey ahead is challenging. The right side of her face remains paralyzed, affecting everyday activities like eating, drinking, and speaking.
- Doctors uncertain about condition
- Expected to make complete recovery
- Struggles with basic daily tasks
- Feelings of depression and anxiety
The impact of this infection extends beyond physical limitations, as Vicky shares the emotional toll it has taken on her. Unable to secure new job opportunities due to her health condition, she faces uncertainties about her future. Despite the challenges, Vicky remains grateful for the medical care she received, emphasizing the need for more understanding and awareness of such rare illnesses. She hopes to overcome this adversity and move forward with her life, reclaiming her sense of normalcy one day at a time.