Late yesterday afternoon I had an appointment with Physician Assistant Nora Tholl at M Health Fairview Spine and Neurosurgery Clinic, where I'd been referred by the ER last week. The ER doc thought sciatica was a probable diagnosis, which seemed sensible, under the circumstances.
However, as the week following the ER junket progressed, I became convinced that an adverse reaction to atorvastatin (generic name for Lipitor) should at least be considered. By yesterday I was almost my normal self and was anxious be begin reclaiming my life. By the time of my appointment, I had no symptoms that suggested a "pinched nerve". Moreover, feeling "poisoned" -- a sensation that dissipated after a few days -- might be more consistent with a reaction to medication, especially since I literally felt better by the hour.
Most of my medical record is University of Minnesota/Fairview but Ms. Tholl took her own history. She gave me a quiz to assist in identifying statin responsibility for symptoms -- all my answers suggested yes, though I was unwilling to try the final test (restarting the statin).
The neurological exam included strength tests (all normal). That being said, I do feel diminished strength and energy after this week. When Bob expressed concern that I would soon be "overdoing as usual", Ms. Tholl suggested increasing activity by a modest 10% per day.
Polymyalgia rheumatica was considered in the differential diagnosis but set aside, permanently, I hope. If I continue to improve every day I'm probably on my way to a full recovery. No need for a cane or other assistance and very little pain.
With a bit of luck, that's all she wrote and I'm feeling well this morning.
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