Queen Guitarist Brian May’s Recovery from a Minor Stroke
Queen guitarist Brian May has revealed that he recently suffered a minor stroke that temporarily affected the control of one of his arms. Earlier this year, Queen concluded their Japan tour with Adam Lambert, but with no upcoming shows, the 77-year-old guitarist has time to focus on his recovery. Describing the incident as a “minor stroke,” May has shared that he is under strict medical orders to take it easy.
May took to Instagram on September 4th to inform his fans of his health scare, offering a positive update: “The good news is that I can play guitar after the events of the last few days.”
Brian May Details His Stroke and Recovery
In his Instagram post, Brian May explained the incident further: “I say this because it was in some doubt because that little health hiccup happened about a week ago. What they called it was a ‘minor stroke.’”
He recalled the frightening moment when he suddenly lost control of one of his arms: “All of a sudden, out of the blue, I didn’t have any control over this arm, so it was a little scary.” However, May expressed his gratitude for the excellent care he received at Frimley Hospital, stating, “I had the most fantastic care and attention from Frimley Hospital; blue lights flashing the lot, very exciting.”
Following Doctor’s Orders for a Full Recovery
While Brian May has been recovering well, he emphasized that he has kept quiet about his condition because he didn’t want to receive “sympathy” from fans. He wants to focus on regaining his health. May shared that he’s following strict doctor’s orders, including restrictions on driving, flying, and doing anything that might raise his heart rate. “I’m grounded, I’m not allowed to go out, drive, get on a plane, I’m not allowed to raise the heart rate too high. But I am good,” May concluded.
Although it’s currently unknown how long it will take him to make a full recovery, May’s ability to play guitar again is a positive sign. However, touring remains off the table for the foreseeable future due to his medical restrictions on traveling and intense physical activities.
What Is a Minor Stroke?
A minor stroke, also known as a transient ischaemic attack (TIA), occurs when blood flow to the brain is temporarily disrupted. According to the NHS, the symptoms of a TIA, such as weakness or numbness in one arm, often resolve within minutes or hours. However, treatment is essential to prevent a future stroke.
Brian May’s symptoms align with one of the major indicators of a TIA: the inability to lift or control one arm due to weakness or numbness. Other common symptoms of a TIA include facial weakness and speech difficulties.
Conclusion
Brian May’s minor stroke has placed his health and recovery in the spotlight, with fans eager to see him back in action. His announcement that he can play guitar again is a relief to many, though it’s clear that he will take the time needed to fully recover. In the meantime, fans continue to send their best wishes to the legendary Queen guitarist as he rests and follows the advice of his doctors.
