Keep going, keep Positive.
Life before my concussion or TBi was great. I was able to walk, run, basically participate in normal everyday life.
I suffered a TBi on both sides of the head at the temples from coming through a door which another person was closing with full body force. It was the next day that I started feeling the effects: nausea, dizziness, all the concussion symptoms. I finally got to a doctor who rapidly forwarded me to the local ED. The doctor did not recognize any vestibular effects. They were eventually noticed by a family doctor with a referral to Vestibular Physio. The first visit was an assessment only, as my symptoms were excessive. The second visit she did not think it was sensible to try Vestibular treatment yet. I ended with a referral to a Concussion Clinic. I thank the doctor for making me aware that something else was wrong/impacted other than the previous concussions which “went away” after 1-2 weeks.
The Concussion Clinic Occupational Therapist visited me and quickly realized that this was a severe case of TBi. She explained how both sides of my brain had been bruised and that the two lobes moved like an earthquake. Their physio came once, assessed me again: no manipulation and no further treatment until my MRI was done.
Six months from the date of the injury and the nausea has become an unwanted companion along with dizzy periods and fatigue. It is getting harder to write this. I am leaving out letters, mis-spelling, tired.
Coping mechanisms include taking ginger tablets for the nausea. Ondansetron was prescribed but I am trying natural options also. I am always taking a hiking pole when walking, especially with the dog who has been of immense help. Though, a 15 minute walk becomes 1.5 hours. I drinking water, have very little caffeine, and have meals frequently – even with nausea.
The vestibular effects have restricted my outings. Parties are usually a short visit if at all. I spent the first 6 weeks trying to go to work but have now been off work totally since early June. I was unable to drive anywhere until 2 weeks ago. Now I am allowed short local drives, supervised. This has taken a toll on my home life as well as work, obviously. Having to be careful when standing up and avoiding sudden turns of the head. Probably a few other things as well which I can’t recall.
I have found this is a long rollercoaster and if you can, REST when any symptoms pop up. Utilize any aids you need. Be proud of the fact that you use a hiking pole – you are protecting yourself plus your loved ones by reducing the chances of re-injuring yourself. Be kind to yourself. Find the right help. DO the exercises. Use musician earplugs. Take care.