Hi everyone, I have been viewing these forums for about two months now (but just decided to register today). I unfortunately suffered a concussion just over two months ago (April 7), I am most definitely suffering from PCS now. I have a few odd symptoms that I can't get my head around. Since my concussion my temporal artery on my left temple has been swollen and hard to the touch (I only get left sided headaches). Also, I can feel/hear my pulse inside my head when I lay on my pillow (doesn't hurt, just plain weird and annoying). Lastly, sometimes when I swallow my left ear seems to crackle or pop. I was just curious if anyone else have these odd symptoms. I am really concerned about the swollen/hard temporal artery though. Non of these things were of issue in till I received my concussion. I would also like to note that I never get headaches on my right side of my head, only left temple region and sometimes the left side of the back of my head. Any insight would be great, thank you.

Regards,
Mike

Any ideas?

Regards,
Mike

Mike,

Welcome to NeuroTalk. Unfortunately, you have given us very little information so it is hard to respond informatively. Did you hit the left side of your head ?

What other symptoms are you experiencing ? Have you been seen by a doctor ?

Hi Mark! Sorry, I was assaulted on April 7. I was struck a few times to the face and to the back of my head (left side). I believe the person that stuck me had a ring on his finger, as I had a round circular wound in the area.

Regards,
Mike

Forgot to answer the last bit you asked, doh! Other symptoms I have are dizziness spells/lightheadedness (seems like it comes from the back of my head), constant spacey/fog feeling (which feels very scary at times), not feeling like myself and some insomnia. I have seen my GP and he had set me up for a CT scan and that the brain sometimes take a long time to heal.

Regards,
Mike

Mike,

At this point, a CT Scan is not going to be of any value. You don't sound like you have any symptoms that suggest a CT Scan is suggested.

You may have an injured/bruised artery.

Your GP is right about concussions can be slow healing.

The best thing for you is to lay low and get quiet rest. Read the Vitamins sticky at the top.

btw, You symptoms are quite normal. If you have any tenderness behind your ears, it will help to ice the back of your head and neck frequently.

You are not experiencing severe symptoms like many do.

My best to you.

Mark, thanks for the insight. I was thinking that a CT would not benefit me as well. One other question, I forgot to mention that I am a long time anxiety sufferer, can anxiety be prolonging my PCS recovery? It's been a few days over 2 months now. My first concussion occurred about two years ago and I recovered within a month. Thanks again Mark.

Regards,
Mike