Introducing Myself
 

Hi. I was hit by a falling metal object 6 months ago at work. I work in an office, so it was a freak accident. I also have cochlear implants, and was hit directly on top of the magnet which connects the external processor to the part that is implanted beneath the skin. I had tinnitus and a headache, but went about my day, and even went to work the next day. It wasn't until two days after the accident that I woke up with severe symptoms, including nausea, dry heaves, headache, inability to stay on my feet, eat, concentrate, etc.

Several times I thought I was getting better, but that never lasted more than a couple of days. It really feels as though I have made no progress beyond a few weeks post injury. I am mostly home bound. Social events, driving, noise, stores, being on my feet for too long, concentration, lifting things, bending over, looking up, exerting myself and lifting more than about 10 lbs all exacerbate the condition. I had to have my cochlear implant levels turned way down due to noise sensitivity and now am not hearing well.

I have also lived with Meniere's disease for 20 years, which has similar symptoms to PCS, dizziness, tinnitus, fatigue, and it also caused me to lose my hearing in my 20's. Despite this I have always worked hard and tried to live as normal a life as possible. The PCS has pushed me over the edge and I am not currently able to function in life or at work. I become so tired during the day and especially in the early evening. Like most PCS sufferers I have better days and worse days, often in clusters.

I had a cat scan which was normal. I'm not able to have MRIs due to the implants.

I have a two year old daughter and it is very difficult to take care of her, but I do a lot for her around the house and I wonder if that is slowing my recovery. My husband has stepped up and does all the shopping and driving, and more things around the house than before.

I am worried about my future and my ability to work a regular full time job, and to give my daughter everything she needs.

I don't have a specific question, but any advice, personal stories, or words of encouragement would be appreciated! Thanks.

Take things slow. Recovery is commonly over many months but we do recover. Be kind to yourself your injured. Eat right, take supplements that help, avoid nuerostimulants if you can tolerate it light exercise. Use your support system.

Hello and Welcome
 

Hello Rolea,

Welcome here to NeruoTalk. This is a good place. I am sorry to hear about your injury and struggles. Your symptoms sound just like PCS. I am glad you found this site, but sorry you had to find it too.

Please check out the vitamin stickie at the top and also see what you can do to heal from the inside. I hope you can brain rest too. Some people have to work and try to brain rest when they are home. That did not work for me at all, but I have made it back to work - for which I am very grateful.

Do you have any help or support with your 2 year old? You will likely need to call on friends and family to pitch in and help you. Your brain is injured and you will need help.

Feel free to tell us more about your symptoms and ask questions. Others will weigh in too.

Sincerley,

poetrymom

I have 3 children, 2 of which are toddlers, and I also worry about my ability to work and take care of them. I'm about 2 months into my concussion.

I do think that caring for your child could be slowing down your recovery. My children are very active and loud, and the constant running and screaming is very hard for me sometimes (whereas before the concussion, I was right there running and yelling with them).

I read the kids a lot of stories, and that exhausts me now. Are you reading to your little one? I have also found that I can no longer watch TV with my children.

Thanks everyone. Good advice rmschaver. The only thing I've tried so far is ibuprofen. Actually my doctor wants me to lay off of the ibuprofen in case of rebound headaches. It's the only thing that makes me feel better though.

Poetry mom, I have help with my daughter when my husband isn't working, and she's also in school 3 days per week. Some days are really hard though. That is wonderful that you're back at work, and that it's going well for the most part.

True momwriterstudent, toddlers can be more difficult than a job at times! I do read some with her. Sometimes just the sound and vibration of my voice in my own head makes me feel sick. Other times it's easier. Yes television can be hard, especially in the beginning. Like most things it's easier some days than others. I'm sorry that you're not able to be active with your children right now. It's a terrible feeling to think that you can't be the parent you want to be.

I like that my daughter distracts me from my symptoms. I try to put on a happy face for her, and it's also nice to remember how it was as a child to be healthy and free of medical conditions.