Jo Ann Moschetto

I awoke with chills, severe shaking and lightheadedness at 2:00 am on Aug 12, 2011. I was taken by ambulance to the ER. My blood pressure was very low, heart rate elevated and fever was present. I was diagnosed with sepsis. I was in ICU with neutropenic precautions for 3 days. I received a medication to help my blood pressure to stabilize, heavy IV fluids and IV antibiotics. I was transferred to a step down unit for 3 more days.

The cause has never been determined – all tests came back negative.

I am out on leave from work and it is now Sep 20, 2011. I am still suffering from lightheadedness when I go out for more than an hour or so. I feel like I have motion sickness. I am very sensitive to loud noises or reflections of light. These cause me to feel off balance. The only thing that helps is rest.

My doctor said that it’s a side effect of the neurotoxins released in my body from the sepsis. My insurance company that handles my leave of absence has indicated that I should be better by now. Although I have some good days, I cannot predict from day to day how I will feel.

I’m worried about never getting back to normal. Has anyone else experienced this?