Almost 6 months PCS and my first Neuro visit yesterday

[Chris4329]

So after almost 6 months (with a major relapse after the first month), I have finally seen the neurologist for the first time. My worst symptoms at the moment are simply concentration problems, strange tingling/throbbing behind temples, the entire back of my head aches, and problems sleeping.

My neuro basically said he is confident that I will get better and I should now take small steps to re-establish my normal life prior to the concussion. Problem is my life prior to concussion was composed of excessive drinking, late nights, unhealthy food, and fast sports. I forgot to mention the drinking but when I said that maybe I should exercise he said "did you do that before?". I said no and then he reiterated that I should try to do everything exactly as I was before.

At the time I was thinking this is all great news and I was like but today I'm all like

[Lightrail11]

Hi Chris. I suggest that the “small steps” toward your normal routine should be healthy ways to reestablish the damaged neuro pathways, to alleviate the concentration and sleeping problems. Alcohol will inhibit this recovery.

http://www.msktc.org/tbi/factsheets/...c-Brain-Injury

http://www.tbicommunity.org/resource...Spring2008.pdf

Good nutrition should also be part of the recovery plan. B vitamins, fish oil, and a generally healthy diet are important. Mark has a good list on one of his other posts.

[Chris4329]

yeah I'm just wondering why he would blindly say that I should return to all my regular activities without knowing what they are.

Perhaps he thinks my issues are psychological? That's my only logical reasoning for such a diagnosis.


EDIT: forgot to mention, he also said I should give up the vitamin supplements and Tylenol...

[Mark in Idaho]

It answer is quite simple. The neuro does not know much about concussion. This is not uncommon. You will find better advice here.

Take it slow and start adding activities to your day. Keep your exercise low impact. Go in 2 week steps. Add a new activity for 2 weeks before adding another activity. If you cause a return of symptoms, stop the last activity added and give it a couple weeks to get back to symptom free then add another activity.

You know the activities to avoid. Use this time to establish a new routine of activities that will not set you up for future relapses. There are plenty of lower risk activities that can provide a full life experience.

My best to you.