A few updates. We crossed the 4-week mark on Thanksgiving and it's continued to be an up and down recovery.

We took the week off from the doctor as the trips into the city did not seem to be helping much. We'll be heading back in for the first time this afternoon for a follow up with her neurologist, though still considering shopping for a new one. At least a second opinion at this point, as this one just keeps telling her to rest and that she will get better. I'm not sure what else they would say, but I feel like it's worth meeting with someone else to see what they think.

I've also been exploring and becoming more open to the idea of a psychiatrist. Her emotional fluctuations and a few more alarming things have been popping up this past week. A severe anxiety, generally accompanied by an overwhelming paranoia. She can tell that the thoughts are not real or valid, but she says that they still pop up and have a strong impact on her. Dips into depression are becoming more frequent too. This is all also coupled with random great days where she feels fine and is able to go for walks / be more autonomous.

She is very resistant to being put on any sort of anti-depressant or medication, and I feel similarly. Particularly that she is recovering from a brain injury. Has anyone had any experience with this? Will any neuro be helpful with this aspect, or is what we need really a psychiatrist / someone able to address non-physical symptoms from her injury?

I have experience with meds during PCS. A common med prescribed during PCS is amitriptyline. Some times, nortriptyline is prescribed. Both are tri-cyclic anti-depressants.

Getting her anxiety under control is important. Anxiety attacks are very stressful on the brain.

I have been on Paxil, Klonopin, gabapentin, Celexa, and now Zyprexa.

She should be doing sublingual B-12, 500 mgs 3 times a day.

I suggest you call around for a referral to a psychiatrist with experience with concussions. Maybe a neuro-psychiatrist would be good. An ortho-molecular psychiatrist would be worthwhile if you can find one.

Most neuros are not much help with concussions although her's is suggesting the right thing when he says she needs to rest. But she also needs to get control of the anxiety issues.

Her roller coaster sounds like what I was experiencing up until a few weeks ago when I was put back on meds. I was falling apart. Could not get on a airplane. Read my recent addition to my signature / bio.

Hope youcan find a good doc. Have you considered a physiatrist (Physical medicine and Rehabilitation) ? They can sometimes be very helpful.

My best to you.

Hi Mark,

Glad to hear you are feeling better with the new meds. I was on Celexa and Zyprexa at the same time during the beginning of my recovery. Depression wise I felt good, but anxiety wise my brain wouldn't shut off. I guess it all comes down to everyone's body is different.


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