Hi Diandra,
You make an excellent point: It can be difficult, if not impossible to tell if some of the ongoing symptoms are from concussion or are PTSD.
I find a neurologist attributes most symptoms to brain injury. A psychiatrist attributes most symptoms to PTSD. Lol!
My PCP is quite bright; yet, he seemed to think all brain injury symptoms would be gone in 72 hours. Huh? I had to offer him some educational literature.
I'm not ultra-educated on this topic, myself. I'd found, after this last concussion, I couldn't study up on anything. Little reading comprehension, mega brain fatigue and would fall asleep trying to read/study anything... or suffer a severe headache. I hit walls and cannot think any further. My mind shuts down.
The ER doctor had told me to stay away from computer monitors and TV screens, which I also did for 6 months.
For me, the PTSD from this assault had triggered old PTSD. I would jump out of my skin with any sudden stimulus, etc.
I share a multi-level home and cannot fully relax unless the home is empty or everyone is sound asleep. I know what you mean by the 1 am peace and quiet.
I am not the same. The medication helps to keep me more even, more like I used to be. Thankfully.
The assault was random, unprovoked, in broad daylight.
I was seated on a park bench, visiting, and was attacked from behind. I was at this person's mercy, as the grip on me was extremely strong and I could not turn and fight back in any way. Once the attack was over, I did not know how hurt I was. I was in shock of some type and I followed my assailant for two blocks so police could make an arrest. The person was getting lost in the city crowd in a major marketplace. My assailant took down two officers before subdued. I then had attended a movie, as per our plans prior to the assault. I was "numb." I did not realize how injured I was until the next morning. Went to the ER. In retrospect, I should have stayed on the ground, not pursuing my assailant. I was just too stunned.
(As it turns out, the person had a very severe mental illness, was from a different state and had wanted/needed services not available to a non-resident. Assault is one way to get the housing, food and meds needed. The person had eventually shouted out to me and to the police, "Please make sure I am arrested, I NEED help!"
)
My story aside, I am sure there are members here with better information.
I am just getting around to reading more about what I have been living for the past 2+ years. My reading comprehension is not back to normal, yet is better than it has been since the injuries.
I hope others (more educated on concussions) will comment on your thread.
I am truly not very up-to-date. I am here reading, trying to understand why I am still needing this medication, etc.
Thanks for the healing thoughts and prayers.
I am offering the same to you, Diandra.
Warmly,
DejaVu