Erika Duran's story serves as a stark reminder of the delicate balance between ambition and well-being. Initially, it seemed a clear-cut case of burnout: a "workaholic" businesswoman, juggling multiple ventures, collapsing into a coma after ignoring persistent headaches. However, the reality proved to be more complex, revealing a congenital condition exacerbated by the very lifestyle she led.
Duran, known for her active lifestyle and dedication to fitness, initially dismissed her recurring headaches. As reported by GMA Network's BaliTambayan, her focus remained on her businesses, leading to chronic sleep deprivation and mounting stress. The narrative seemed straightforward: overwork and stress had taken their toll.
The turning point came in November when Duran experienced a severe headache, followed by a seizure. Realizing the gravity of the situation, she requested to be rushed to the hospital. En route, a blood vessel in her brain ruptured, plunging her into a coma.
The situation was dire. Duran's chances of survival were slim. Transferred to Makati Medical Center, she was diagnosed with arteriovenous malformations (AVM), a congenital condition affecting blood flow in the brain. Her cerebrovascular neurosurgeon, Dr. Guillermo V.T. Liabres, explained that AVM disrupts the efficient delivery of blood to the brain, potentially leading to rupture.
While Duran's AVM was present from birth, the symptoms manifested later in life. This raises the crucial question: did her stressful, overworked lifestyle contribute to the rupture? According to Dr. Liabres, the answer is yes. While the condition was congenital, the stress and lack of sleep from overworking likely increased the pressure, ultimately triggering the rupture of the blood vessel.
This revelation underscores the insidious nature of stress. It can act as a catalyst, exacerbating pre-existing conditions and leading to severe health consequences. Duran's story highlights that even a seemingly healthy lifestyle can be undermined by the relentless pressure of overwork.
Miraculously, Duran survived. Despite initial concerns about potential neurological deficits, she has made a remarkable recovery. She regained her ability to speak, walk, and engage in daily activities, even returning to social media platforms like TikTok.
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