Unable to do Neuropsych assessments due to concussion symptoms. What to do?
 

10 months post-MVA, I can read a bit now without getting dizzy, but now my head gets really hot when I reach my limit. I feel some random spots in my head getting really hot then my entire head and my face get hot. Then, I have nausea and feel like I have a fever(physically ill or something). Recovery time depends on how much I pushed myself after the initial reaction.

During my neuropsych assessment, aafter about an hour or so of memory testing(showing me a pic then asking me which of the two pics did I just saw) as well as some fact questions (who is Obama?) my head got really hot and I felt like I was going to throw up. I rested for an hour then answered some more questions at which point my face was also getting flushed and I had to stop. For about 5-6 days, I was in bad shape. I slept a lot(which was unusual these days) felt confused/disoriented at times (what year, day, time is it? am I in a different country)?

Has anyone had a similar experience? (could not go through with neuropsych evaluations due to PCS symptoms?) Is there anything I can do for recovery other than resting? What are causing these symptoms?

I wake up with the back of my head and neck on fire and sometimes to my face. It is awful but you are not alone. I have been desperately trying to find an answer. I see nor ologists tomorrow and let you know

will,

Rest is the most appropriate way to recover. A good NeuroPsych will understand your limitations. Breaking the NPA into many short sessions should help.

Are you doing any nutritional therapy ? Omega 3 fish oil in abundant doses would be good for a start. Read the Vitamins sticky at the top.

Is you care being directed by a physiatrist (Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation)?

Appreciate your reply, Mark. The NeuroPsych assessment was ordered by the insurance company, and they were not interested in my well being or recovery. (they kept pushing me, complaining that they don't know how they are going to write their reports in time. I complained about the pain but they did not take it seriously and when I asked if we could continue some other time, the neuropsychologist actually said "no")

My fam doc also is not taking my symptoms too seriously and said I do not need to see ANY specialists (including neurologists, etc). wondering if these assessments are helpful anyways for my recovery.

taking vitamin supplements as well as Omega 3. will read what you recommended. Thank you.

It sounds like you need to can your family doc and find a doc who cares. As I said, a physiatrist would be a good start.

A good NPA can direct your therapy. It can also be a big help in explaining and validating your symptoms and complaints.

Thank you for your replies. Mark, thank you. I will talk to a new GP about seeing a psychiatrist/neuropsychologist.

I did not suggest a psychiatrist, a specialist in mental health.

I said a physiatrist, an MD specialist in Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation. Physiatrists often work with Neuro-Psychologists, PhD's who do testing to diagnose brain function.