Invisible illness
 

Hi everyone:

I was in an MVA on September 17,2014 in which I recieved a concussion and now suffer from PCS. I have lightheaded spells, difficulty coming up with simple words, my brain becomes "tired" with stimulation, I have some light sensitivity issues and movement sometimes bothers me. Now of course all of this is invisible to many people and I am feeling like I am being judged by people from work, I dread going back! I have been out of work since the MVA and have no idea when I will be able to return as I am a school bus driver and because of that I have to be symptom free for two weeks before I can drive a bus again! Does anyone else deal with this and if so, how do you handle it?

Doubted

Hi LisaMay!

I'm so sorry you're going through this- don't get down get help! If there is a brain injury rehab facility in your area I recommend getting an appointment.

I began with similar symptoms and unfortunately pushed through ignoring them while I worked and raced and drank and didn't take care of my symptoms well and had to leave work to finally address them.

I was told had I sought help and rehab for my symptoms early on I would have faired much better.

I hope you find help and strength and support through this forum as I have and many others in your exact place have. Look at the stickys as there are great amounts of information and websites to help you understand what's going on and how to cope and heal.

Chin up!

LisaMay,

Welcome to NeuroTalk. Your experience is very common. We are the invisible injured.

There is a YouTube series of videos call "You Look Great" at http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x9Xso...ature=youtu.be
It explains this completely. If you have friends or coworkers who are willing to watch it, it will open their eyes.

I suggest you get evaluated by a neuro rehab clinic for your driving skills. Just being symptoms free may not be enough for the responsibility you carry.

My best to you.

Mark,
Thank you so much, the videos helped so much! I send them to some friends and relatives and I hope it makes them understand.

Another thanks for that youtube link Mark-- I was able to watch 5 of the 6. The last one was unavailable for some reason.
Has anyone read the book?

I was thinking last night that with the huge prevalence of these symptoms and given the technology available, someone should be able to come up with simulations of the PCS effects in an attempt to enlist/
educate MDs.

Then again, the insurance companies would surely lobby against that- if it hasn't already happened.
Well at least it felt encouraging to have an idea for consideration...

Grace