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Old 06-15-2007, 11:26 AM
pono pono is offline
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Join Date: May 2007
Posts: 270
15 yr Member
pono pono is offline
Member
 
Join Date: May 2007
Posts: 270
15 yr Member
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YES-- concussion /traumatic brain injury can result in persisting symptoms & problems you described. I can relate to what you're experiencing , sadly it does feel like you're "going crazy" when you know something's Wrong, that you're "different" than before accident, w/ dysfunctions in areas that compromise daily living, but most of the basic tests are "normal". Drs may focus on treating various symptoms-headaches, anxiety, moods, sleep distrubances, etc. and this can be helpful.

Hope the neurologist helps you, may need to pursue interventions for other problems-like neck pain-if persists or gets worse as Myofacial & other pain syndromes can occur. There are several Neuro-Specialists that may be needed for specific issues such as ear/hearing problems. Neuro-endocrine problems can also occur {check out articles/links in this forum on that.]
Neuropsychologists are often recommended-for more specialized testing, recommendations & support.
Recently, I was referred to a Brain Injury Specialst- Physiatrist -Dr of Physical Medicine & Rehab. All are different, as are our problems, but Physiatrists do tend to have more wholistic view and training in various areas including Neurology.

after head injury, problems can occur that are difficult to even express or understand-Cognitive dysfunctions, emotional surges, hypersensitivities, strange feelings, etc. along w/ more tangible symptoms. Each persons' experience unique

It's a process; your condition could resolve & improve soon, but may take more than time. ongoing problems have been reported- persisting months, even years after TBi .

My process has been frustrating & a bit complicated. My last head injury 6 mths ago was not the first. Hx of Tbi and multiple overlapping conditions. Recent Dx: RSD does explain some but not all- pain, neuropathic & other symptoms I've have. Seizures were suspected, ruled out by prior tests but have been addressed again along w/ other cervical & central nerve disorders
I'm trying various meds. for nerve & other pain: Cymbalta, anti-depressant that's been effective for many w/ neuropathies but has plenty side f/x.
Ambien: for sleep issues. Topamax: anticonvulsive, prescribed for headaches-migraines; adverse reactions so d/c that med. Will see what else Dr suggests at next appt.

Challenge to get appropriate, encompassing Dx to validate symptoms & problems. Dx: PCS-Post Concussive syndrome may be applicable but for many this Dx: PCS- "controversial"- disagreement on "diagnostic critera"-symptoms, how long persist--some say more than 3 weeks, others say longer-for Dx: PCS. Some question if PCS is "real" -that persisting symptoms which don't heal, resolve as "should've" indicate predisposition, pre-existing conditions, psych issues, & more.
don't be surprised if you feel Crazier-doesn't mean you are! Head injury -even "mild" TBi can affect so much in so many ways.

Focus on Your body's needs: rest, sleep, good diet-high protein was recommended, along w/ appropriate gentle exercise-if you can tolerate it.
I know it's hard to even think about eating w/ nausea, & to move w/ pain but exercise has been cited to be one of the best treatments for PCS. However you may need more testing to determine if are other conditions or injuries that could be exacerbated or harmful by "wrong" forms of exercise.
Deep "focused" breathing has numerous benefits.

Educate self about Head injuries-Learning about the Brain & how head trauma impacts & affects so many areas. empower & enable your process of healing and accessing most appropriate treatments & interventions.
Check out stickys above. I found Link-"Brain Injury 101" has Lots of info.

Perhaps others will share their experiences & suggestions and offer more support. Wish you the Best !
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