Very lightheaded after hitting head on ceiling
 

I stood up under a low ceiling two weeks ago and banged my head hard. Three hours later I felt very sick and had to go to A&E. Nothing sinister was found and I was sent home. I was very lightheaded and my head was sore but that was it. Two weeks later I am still very lightheaded and unable to drive because of this. It has started to make me feel anxious because I fear it will never go away. I have seen two more doctors, one said it would take four weeks, another said less than that so don't know who to believe. Are my expectations of recovery too high? How long before I need to start worrying about it? Any advice much appreciated!

Marg2011,

Welcome to NeuroTalk.

There is no way anybody can predict how long it will take for you to recover. 85% recover during the first 6 weeks but the other 15% can take much longer.

Do you have any stiffness or soreness in your neck, especially your upper neck ? Icing your upper neck may help.

How does your head respond to activity that increases your pulse and blood pressure ? Getting more blood flowing to your brain may make a difference. Have you tried anything like a brisk walk ?

Hi! Thanks for the reply. I have tried going out for a walk a couple of times a day but this presents problems due to painful foot! No neck stiffness or soreness. If it wasn't for the lightheadedness I would be fine. I usually feel OK in bed and turning over doesn't increase the dizziness. Also if I am just sitting it is not too bad. It is only when I start moving either on foot or in the car. I had at least hoped for a small improvement but if anything it seems to be worse. I guess I just have to be patient!

Welcome Marg.

I'm sorry you are having a rough time. This is a wonderful, supportive community.

One of the greatest things I have been learning from the people here is to try to stop asking "how long until I am back to normal?" The brain is still too much of a mystery to scientists at this point. (glad something is, but too bad it's my brain.) Don't get me wrong, sometimes I get very down about it. But I am learning gradually to just be where I am and not constantly try to count the days. I have also finally started explaining this to friends and extended family who ask. A lot will happen over time and rest. That is so vague that you probably want to strangle anyone who says it to you again.

I had an epiphany in the first month after hitting my head and experiencing this incredible loss of power in my life. Then I realized that the idea that I had control over things was an illusion anyway. Since then, I try more to let go. (try is the operative word.) :)

Hang in there and stay positive! You are among friends.
Julie

Just an update..... Reading the posts in this forum is making me realise I am probably one of the lucky ones as I don't have a huge battery of symptoms to cope with. The lightheadedness is very difficult to cope with but I can walk without falling over and even managed a couple of short drives although I think this tends to make things worse. I have had a day or two where I thought it was getting better but then it comes back. Also get very tired. As I am over 60 I guess it will take longer for me but I am hopeful I will get my head back sometime soon. Does anyone know whether it is OK to have a glass of wine at this stage? I do feel in need of some relaxation!

I think each person and each head trauma is different but I would strongly urge you to abstain from alcohol. Take a nice hot bubble bath instead :-) I'm 33 and at this point in my life I don't foresee myself drinking anything again.

Welcome Marg2011. :Wave-Hello: