NeuroTalk Support Groups - need help im new, think i have pcs

NeuroTalk Support Groups (https://www.neurotalk.org/)

- Traumatic Brain Injury and Post Concussion Syndrome (https://www.neurotalk.org/traumatic-brain-injury-and-post-concussion-syndrome/)

- - need help im new, think i have pcs (https://www.neurotalk.org/traumatic-brain-injury-and-post-concussion-syndrome/162195-help-im-pcs.html)

Quote:

Originally Posted by jentaylor728 (Post 834845)

Hello,
Please pardon me not posting this where it belongs (I am a brand new user and I cannot figure out how to post a new topic)

My 18 year old son has suffered 5 concussions since August of 2011 (It's now December of 2011). Stupidly, he told no one of the injuries until this last concussion.

He's had a continual headache for 5 months..he says he's just used to having it and it doesn't really bother him. Some dizziness, and forgetfulness. MRI is fine, went to see a prominent neurological psychologist. He took an extensive history, gave him a vision and balance test which were fine. In a month, he wants to do in-depth cognitive testing. Doc wants to treat him behaviorly how to manage headaches and if that doesn't work, then medication.

Here's my question (and it's probably a stupid one): We know eventually he'll get better with lots of rest..He will NOT be participating in ANY contact sports. What is the benefit of doing all this extra testing?

I'd appreciate any insight, and once again, sorry for posting this in the wrong place.

Jennifer

The extra testing helps determine any learning or emotional discrepencies. For instance if a person post-concussion has a harder time with short term memory, you may learn new techniques such as organizers or sticky notes as reminders. Hope that helps a bit!

jentaylor728,

As kayley said, the NeuroPsych Assessment proposed by the NeuroPsychologist will help pinpoint his dysfunctions. Your son may be hiding more of his symptoms from you. Five concussions in such a short time period can be quite devastating. The NPA will pinpoint the exact dysfunctions so that he can get specific help with those symptoms.

I suggest taking a more realistic approach to his condition. You said <We know eventually he'll get better with lots of rest..> His recovery will likely need serious work on his part. If he has any prolonged cognitive dysfunctions, he will need to learn how to move forward. He may need academic help, i.e. additional time when taking a test, new study skills, assistance with note taking, etc.

There is a saying, Hope for the best but prepare for the worst. Being ready to support him if he struggles to continue with his academic pursuits will be important.

I hope his NPA shows minimal dysfunctions. Cognitive and memory dysfunctions can take a lot of work to learn living skills.

My best to you both.