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-   -   Computer Screens and Headaches (https://www.neurotalk.org/traumatic-brain-injury-and-post-concussion-syndrome/246385-computer-screens-headaches.html)

kacw 04-10-2017 01:02 PM

Computer Screens and Headaches
 
Sorry if this has been discussed before, but I am new to this board.

My 14 yo daughter suffered a concussion 5 weeks ago during soccer practice. She has suffered from fatigue, light sensitivity and headaches since that time (which I understands is normal for a concussion). Most of her work at school is on computers, so that has been difficult for her. She had the opportunity to be away from her screens (and school) for 4 solid days last week (4 weeks into concussion), headaches gone and light sensitivity gone. She seemed to be progressing back to recovery. She didn't even have to wear sunglasses in the full sun over the weekend.

This morning back at school, get a text at 9:15 "headache back". :( Back to computers, back to headache.

What are some suggestions she can reduce the effects of computer time headaches? She can't stop the use. Do anti-glare screens work?

Also, the Doctor Rxed her a higher strength Naproxen and low dose elavil (antidepressant) if the Naproxen didn't help. I am leery of putting my 14 yo on an antidepressant. Any thoughts on that?

Mark in Idaho 04-10-2017 02:48 PM

kacw,

Welcome to NeuroTalk. Sorry to hear your daughter is struggling.

If she develops a head ache after just an hour of screen time, she needs to give her brain more time to heal. Some have used F-Lux to lower the brightness of the computer screen. She might benefit from an assessment by a behavioral optometrist. NORA.cc Health Care Locator Custom may have a listing for your area.

Some computer displays and video cards have ways to change the brightness and refresh rate (Hz) Some have used tinted or glare shields.

Elavil (amitriptyline) is commonly used at a low dose that is below the normal anti-depressant benefit level, often before bed because it can help with insomnia. I agree with your caution at her age.

I strongly suggest you consider her recovery as a priority over maintaining her class work. She can always catch up but many will try to push on with school work and end up with a delayed recovery with poor grades during that extended time.

Head aches are her brain saying, "Stop doing that." Find the level of effort that she can do without triggering head aches can be a struggle but it is well worth it. Masking head aches with pain relievers can allow her to over-do it and delay her recovery.

Have you made any decisions about her future soccer play? Reducing aggressive play and headers can be very important. Reducing her risks can have life long implications.

Jomar 04-10-2017 05:19 PM

Adjust the screen tones, look into special glasses...
But the recovery focus needs to come first, or it will take even longer to get the best long term results..

Maybe look at an online school for now, where she can do short sessions and recovery time outs on her own time..

Maybe consider a non contact sport / activity after full recovery...


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