VICKIJO,

Welcome to NeuroTalk.

I'm sorry to hear about your friend. It sounds like he is having a rough time.

It appears he needs some continuing vestibular diagnosis and therapy. Many struggle with vestibular issues. One doctor has even termed some concussions as vestibular concussions because the major symptom is vestibular.

He would likely benefit from a thorough assessment by a Physiatrist, (Physical Medicine and Rehabilitiation MD) who specializes in NeuroRehab. They are usually affiliated with a NeuroRehab hospital.

His word finding struggles are not uncommon. The best thing he or you can do is to be patient. When he gets frustrated trying to find words, the stress makes the problem worse.

On of the problems with head injuries is the blood brain barrier gets damaged and needs to repair. Nutritional changes can help. An anti-inflammatory diet and vitamins can help. We have a brain focused vitamin regimen in the stickies at the top. The first post has a link to a later updated post. The Omega 3 fish oil, B-12, B-50 Complex, D-3, and magnesium are most important. All of the anti-oxidants are valuable.

How is his sleep? Many with PCS struggle with insomnia or irregular sleep. Proper night time sleep is extremely important. It is when the brain heals. Daytime naps are not advised because they disrupt the nigh time sleep rhythm.

Many suffer subtle upper neck injuries that cause symptoms to persist. Poor sleep posture can cause upper neck inflammation that can disrupt blood flow to the brain. Upper cervical chiro or PT can be very valuable. The subtle neck injury is not imageable in most cases. It can be the trigger for headaches. Icing the upper neck can help.

The flu will make his PCS symptoms much worse. Once he recovers from the flu, his symptoms can be better addressed.

What was the reason he was kept in the hospital for 3 days? Was he slurring his words or unable to balance or...?

He may have suffered a personality change. That change can be permanent. Learning to function as the new person can be a challenge and needs a lot of support. Where do you live? We could help you find a Brain Injury Support Group. They can be very valuable for both the injured and the caregiver/family.

My best to you as you try to help your friend.