Great news that Amy is home, I'm sure she'll go from strength to strength.

Good luck

Mark (Luca's Dad)

Hi Christie,

I’m so glad to hear you’re home and Amy’s happy. The recovery and rehab takes time after a stroke. I’ve even been told that in some cases they may not see significant improvement until a year after. I guess it varies in different cases, but as long as there is improvement, that’s what’s important. We’ll continue our prayers.

As far as why Amy’s doctors are keeping her blood pressure higher, I don’t know in her case, you would have to ask her doctors there because they know her specifics and can explain exactly why. I do however remember many patients mentioning the fact that their doctors kept their pressure on the higher side rather than normal because of their improper blood flow to the brain, having TIA’s both before and after surgery. A little higher keeps the blood-flow pumping up and through the arteries in the brain. That may be beneficial in some MM cases and yet harmful in others. That’s one of the many reasons I always advise a MM specialist. A difference in blood pressure may seem like a small factor, but very important to a MM patient. I, like you, would want to know exactly why they’re keeping it higher.

Thank you so much for the update. Give Amy a big hug for us and please keep us posted.

Mar

My neuro told me we had to find "the balance" with my blood pressure that provided the least amount of symptoms.  Too low and I have numbness, feel like passing out, etc.  By low I mean everyone else's normal.  I had to tinker with my medication and monitor my blood pressure several times daily to find where I was least likely to have a TIA.  I take my BP and then take my BP medication, take half of it, or take none depending on my BP at the time.  I kept a blood pressure log and monitored what the BP was when I was having a TIA, when I felt good, etc. 
  I think on Stanfords web site it gives a little information about needing the BP to be higher to keep the blood moving and the bypass open.  I would also recommend asking her doctor.  She may need to visit other Dr.'s in her life for routine health care and it would be good to explain to them why her BP is high.  I have come across situations where I have gotten a cold or what not and had to explain to my Dr. not only what moyamoya is, but also why my blood pressure needs to be higher than 120/80!      
I too will keep you all in my prayers!
God Bless You All!
Michele

Christie,
Amy may go through a bit of dreperssion, since she remembers being "normal". It is our subconcios remembering the tings we could do before with out any problems. Stay by her side throught this time and remind Amy it will get better. Amy is still with us so God's plan for her is not done. She will get through the struggels and this temporary state is just temporary. I will continue to pray for you all.
Big Hugs,
Becky