Throat infection develops into rare brain condition for Ipswich woman

Summarised from 2 outlets · Updated 23 Oct, 14:33 · Archive

A 36-year-old assistant headteacher from Ipswich developed acute disseminated encephalomyelitis after a streptococcal throat infection.

Harriet Hunt, 36, an assistant headteacher and mother-of-two from Ipswich, was hospitalised after a streptococcal throat infection developed into acute disseminated encephalomyelitis (ADEM). ADEM is a rare autoimmune condition where the immune system attacks myelin, the protective covering around nerves, causing serious inflammation of the brain or spinal cord.

Ms Hunt initially believed she had tonsillitis. However, when she became unable to pass urine and lost sensation in her legs, she attended A&E. She spent two weeks on Capel Ward at Ipswich Hospital. Despite appearing well outwardly, scans revealed severe inflammation along her brain stem and spinal cord.

Ms Hunt said of her experience: 'I could've not been here. I will never forget those people. I am so grateful to everyone who was working to save my life and for the experience I had. They did their jobs in such a diligent and incredible way that made everything so much better for me.' She has since undergone a tonsillectomy.

How it is being reported

• Mum-of-two hospitalised after throat infection turned into life-threatening conditionAn Ipswich woman's throat infection turned into a life-threatening condition.Ipswich Star · 23 Oct, 14:20
• Mum-of-two hospitalised after throat infection turned into life-threatening conditionAn Ipswich woman's throat infection turned into a life-threatening condition.East Anglian Daily Times · 23 Oct, 14:20

In this story: Harriet Hunt · Ipswich Hospital · Ipswich

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