Mommabear77,

Welcome to NeuroTalk. I'm sorry to hear about your fall. At 10 days post concussion, you are still in concussion recovery. Most recover spontaneously in the first 3 to 6 weeks. Those that don't are considered to have PCS. So, you have time to recover without concern for long term PCS.

It does not sound like you have been able to take a break and give your brain some time off. You need to because it is important to recovery. Caffeine is not good for recovery. Try to limit you caffeine to one serving a day.

Do you have a history of migraines? Chronic headaches for an extended period after a concussion is not uncommon. Many use ibuprofen or acetaminophen or even acetaminophen and aspirin combined. You should save the Imitrex for the strong headaches. Headaches have a variety of causes. The most treatable are those from lack of quality sleep and from subtle upper neck injuries.

Your symptoms sound to me like you are not getting good sleep. Sleep dysregulation is a common problem that can trigger some of your symptoms. You should try to maintain a routine of 7-9 hours of sleep with minimal short napping if it does not interfere with getting to sleep at night. (It usually does) Magnesium (citrate, or other non-mag oxide versions are best) an hour before bed. Some do well with melatonin. Amitriptyline in low doses (10 to 30 mg) can help with insomnia and night time headaches when taken an hour before bed. Ask you doctor about it.

A chiro who uses gentle neck techniques or has upper cervical chiro training or a physical therapist who has those gentle skills can be helpful. You are not needing serious range of motion rehab from a PT quite yet. Rather, some gentle traction and mobilization to help the spasms settle down and inflammation heal. A big part of healing a subtle neck injury/strain is good posture during sleep and rest. Minimal pillow lift when on your back and appropriate pillow height when on your side to hold the neck straight.

I understand how 3 kids and the other duties you have right now feel like they rule. But, you need to give your brain a break. AND, others need to understand that your need to give your brain a break. Is there anybody you can call on who can help you like you were helping your friend ? Taking the daily schedule strain off will be a big help. Quieting your home atmosphere will help, music, TV blaring, voices, etc. Taking the 'hurried' out of the day will help. Calming activities during the day can be good. Knitting, painting, crafts, scrap booking, and things that do not have a time crunch can keep the brain mildly active without causing stress.

Tinnitus (ringing in the ears) can be annoying but there is no treatment that works. It is best to try to ignore it. Some use background sounds to help hide it. I've had tinnitus for decades. If I pay attention to it, it can get very loud. If I ignore it, it quiets but does not usually go away.

Many find benefit from a vitamin regimen like posted in the Vitamins sticky at the top.

These ideas should give you a start in your recovery and understanding. Please feel welcome to post or ask anything. We have heard it all.

My best to you.