Jessica,

Welcome to NeuroTalk. Sorry for your reason for being here.

It sounds very much like you have PCS. The anxiety is a symptoms of PCS so your doctor is half right.

I have propanolol ready in the cupboard for those extreme situations like you mentioned.

Your symptoms may have also be exacerbated by the anesthesia from your dental surgery. Sort of a chemo-brain condition.

There are a few things you can do right now.

First, work at becoming more deliberate with your movements. Prior to your concussion, you had more of an unconscious ability to move about with more coordination and safety. Your peripheral vision was probably much better. Until you recover more, you should try to slow down a bit with movements.

Second, Try to limit the amount of stimulation you subj4ect yourself to. Less visual and auditory stimulation will help your brain focus on the tasks at hand.

Third, When you are struggling to focus, try closing your eyes for a moment to pull your thoughts together. This may become a much needed skill.

And, try to relax as much as possible. most of the daily tasks that we get all stressed out about do not require anywhere near the level of stress we tend to put on them. Life is just a lot simpler than we usually make it.

At school, you should be able to get some assistance from the Disabilities Department if you are struggling with note-taking or testing, etc. If you feel like you do not have enough time to complete a test, you should be allowed some extra time. The concussed brain is slower at processing and memory retrieval and such. You may do better is a secluded room when taking a test. You need to speak up about these needs.

There are lots of good people here with experience dealing with schools, etc. feel free to ask any question. There are no dumb questions.

And, download and print out the TBI Survival Guide at www.tbiguide.com

It will help you understand your symptoms. Unfortunately, most doctors are not much help.

And limit your caffeine and alcohol intake. It does not help the concussed brain.

My best to you.