Re: Just when I thought that was it.........

I know what you mean, although I didn't fall over. I was simply walking along the pavement and then, instead of taking another step forward, I suddenly sidestepped one pace to the right. Completely baffled and befuddled, I tried going forwards once more and yet again stepped sideways a pace. It was as if my brain suddenly just thought sidestepping to the right was moving forwards. As I was almost off the curb into a busy road at this point I phoned for one of my sons to come and aid me in getting home.

Whatever it was wore off pretty fast, but I still remember the total bafflement I felt at the time.

Re: Just when I thought that was it.........

That must have been scary Steve for you and your wife - none of us like to see a loved one down and out !

Re: Just when I thought that was it.........

This sounds like you are in denial in all honesty. Naturally you can drive just fine when things are ok. However if that event had happened whilst you were driving you would likely have veered into on-coming traffic. Seriously don't drive.

Re: Just when I thought that was it.........

I disagree the mechanism of balance is predominantly concerned with standing and moving - I have similar balance problems - the mechanism of driving is quite different - you are sitting as if in an armchair - the mechanism of balance do not come into play - your many years of driving and using your legs for clutching and braking work normally - driving automatics is even easier - keep driving without it you will lose all independence - YOU DON'T NEED BALANCE MECHANISMS FOR DRIVING

Re: Just when I thought that was it.........

I agree with you Gumbud, I have had balance problems for many years spend more times getting up from the floor sometimes than walking but I am perfectly safe in my car. Even my neurologist encourages me to drive as it gets me out and about.
I have an automatic too but that's because I have always loved them more than manuals.

Re: Just when I thought that was it.........

then how come with my Meniers I can get a bout of giddiness whilst sitting in my armchair.

Re: Just when I thought that was it.........

Me too - so it obviously depends on 'why' we are having the symptoms - not every case the same .............

Re: Just when I thought that was it.........

Because as Patsy says all cases are different, Steven needs to see his specialist to know what he can or cannot do. If he isn't having symptoms sitting down it's likely he will be told he is fine to drive.

None of us can diagnose on a forum and none of us should try really.

Re: Just when I thought that was it.........

things like Meniers cause dizziness but not necessarily balance - but getting dizzy whilst driving is a risk so each condition needs carefully assessing - my disbalance condition has nothing to do with my ability to drive and my doctor has OK'd it

Re: Just when I thought that was it.........

I do hope you get this problem resolved soon.

Stay safe