"The special attention of a young GP and great NHS staff"

A recently qualified GP picked up on a potentially life threatening condition

I had a very sore neck, not unusual for me as I’ve been suffering with chronic pain for years, but it felt different, I just knew somehow. At the same time I had partial, short term, sight loss on my right eye over two evenings which raised the alarm.

I asked for an appointment to see a GP at my local clinic and, after describing the symptoms, was given an emergency appointment. The young GP, Dr. Barry, listened attentively and spent half an hour with me. She decided I should get checked out further but consulted over the phone with a neurologist for some further advice.

I was sent to MAU in St. John’s hospital in Livingston, was seen immediately there as well and, after various tests I was diagnosed with vertebral artery dissection which, in some cases, can lead to a stroke. I was immediately put on aspirin for 6 months to prevent this from happening. I’m very grateful. I’m happy I’m getting the best treatment so quickly and that, thanks to the special attention of a young GP and great NHS staff, I have the prospect of full recovery without the disastrous consequences of a stroke! Thank you everyone who was there for me!