So Wednesday evening I got a concussion. Long story short, I was on my daughter's scooter and used our German Shepherd to pull me. We got going fairly quickly (if I had to guess, 10+ MPH) when the dog either stopped, or took off the other way. I can't remember which. From what the kids have told me, and from my injuries, I can piece together how I fell and landed. I landed on my left side. I slammed my head into the sidewalk. I wasn't wearing a helmet. (I know I was stupid, I don't need a lecture.)
Well, I didn't go to the hospital. I just figured I needed to rest and ice my hip, knee and ankle. The next day the migraine wasn't gone so I went to see my doctor. My doctor immediately sent me to the ER. The ER did x-rays and a CT scan. I have bruising to the bones in my leg and hip. The CT scan showed that I had a concussion and some swelling. I was kept for observation and then sent home with pain pills and muscle relaxers.
The diagnosis (the reason why I'm still having issues) is post concussion syndrome. I was told that I would have issues for at least a month, probably more. All the research I've done says it could take 1-3 months or more.
Has anyone had this or dealt with a family member who had this? Some of the symptoms are managed with medication, but some can't be. (Like the issues reading and writing because I'm mixing up words and letters...thank goodness for spell check!) Can you give me any advice? What should I do to make it easier and speed up my healing process?
I know the whole idea was stupid and not wearing a helmet was just as stupid, if not stupider. I will be getting a helmet as soon as I'm well enough. Until I have that helmet, I will not be doing anything.
ETA: Thank you all for your comments. I am on bed rest (basically) and only get the computer for 20 minutes a day. I can have the TV on, but I'm not really watching it. It bothers my eyes. I'm on several medications for the pain, to relax my muscles and an anti-inflammatory or something or another. As I said, I know what I did was stupid. While I was having fun at the time, it wasn't worth it and I'll never do it again. My children also haven't ridden their scooters or bikes since without helmets. At the least I've shown them why they need to wear their helmets.
Recently there were several shows on Public Radio concerning this syndrome.
It seems like cognitive and physical rest were key to speeding up recovery.
The bad news is that cognitive rest means that you shouldn't be on the computer. Did your Dr mention cognitive rest? If not, definitely ask him about it.
Jennifer, I have no advice, but just want to send big hugs to you. So glad that you weren't hurt any worse. My best wishes to your quick recovery. Get lots of rest and eat well.
Dawn
So glad that you are being treated...hope you heal faster. I can't give you any info beyond what your doctor has told you. You are getting a helmet now right? (Sorry, can't help it...Safety is my career!)
I don't have any information on post concussion syndrome but I can't help but ask, which part do you know is stupid, the being pulled by a dog or the no helmet?
My brother had a brain injury from a wreck and some of the symptoms are like the concussion and they told him it could take at least a year to get back to normal. I hope it won't take you that long and that you won't be using the scooter with the dog again. :-) I got one doing something like that when I was a teenager and tried to catch a baseball facing backwards. Once is all it takes usually to not try these things again. Hopefully. :-)
