Most AN post-op patients experience some level of fatigue at some point but, as usual, that can vary with each individual. I had big-time fatigue immediately post-op as my body healed from the trauma of a 9-hour, invasive surgery and the after-effects of the anesthesia. I recovered within a week and haven't looked back. Now, almost 11 months out (of surgery), I feel pretty much as I did before I even knew I
had an acoustic neuroma tumor. According to my doctor, my blood pressure, pulse and other vital signs are very good, especially for a guy my age. He said he wishes all his 'older' patients were as healthy as I am. I
like this doctor!
I'm retired and while I don't sit in a rocker all day by any means, I do have the luxury of avoiding the usual stresses of most jobs, which admittedly is a likely factor in my recovery. Aside from the fact that I was fortunate enough to not experience any real complications following surgery (retrosigmoid), I was also highly motivated to 'come back' and do the things I liked to do, before the symptoms of my AN kicked in and drove me to the doctor. I just had a busy week-end that included physical activity and a fairly late night out at the theater. I had no real problem 'keeping up' and didn't doze off, even once.
I move around a lot and walk a few miles at a local park as often as possible, which has helped both my balance and my stamina. I also have a positive outlook and have remained determined not to allow my AN experience to define my the rest of my life. I'm a firm believer in prayer, a positive attitude and a willingness to do what's necessary to regain my health.
So, far, so good.
Jim
