Stroke

[newfarmer+]

I have been having dizzy spells, specifically a feeling of lightheadedness, on and off for the last couple of months. Each 'spell' can last sometimes hours but other times for days. Occasionally, I feel a momentary feeling that I am about to pass out but I seem to recover instantly in seconds. Around these times, I have found my hearing has dulled, or my understanding of speech is diminished, and/or my own speech doesn't "come out right" for only a few seconds even. Occasionally, feel nauseous or get clammy but it seems to pass instantly.

The initial spell occurred after a night of indulging in a lot of wine so the doctors attributed the spell to excessive alcohol causing dehydration. However, I have made a point of living without a social life and alcohol in the last few months and the spells continue.

My father died at the age of 64 from a blood clot while he was out jogging. He was a very fit and healthy man, but unfortunately I think blood clotting may be passed through his side of the family because his parents died at a very young age. We weren't told the causes of their deaths so making the assumption blood clotting may have been involved.

My sister was told she shouldn't continue taking contraceptive medication for this reason as she was showing signs of pains in her chest and arms and her doctors were concerned about the clotting in our family.

Could it be my Nuva Ring contraception causing this?

Personally, I am otherwise a healthy 32 year-old with no other complaints.

I am interested to see if any readers think I should stop the contraception, cut out alcohol altogether, or if they even think I am showing signs of a potential stroke to begin with?

It's pretty scary when the lightheadedness happens. Is this what has happened to victims of stroke? Did you have the same or similar experiences?

And, should I be concerned?

Thank you.