Inpatient

[Kywomnur]

Hi Ken hear had a sub dural hematoma on 12/2316. Seem to have recovered fairly quickly but then all of a sudden,seems like I'm going backwards has anyone haveinput on that? I realize it was a major operation but being a type a personality I want to be recovered now !! Ken

[Gaia_rising]

Hello, Kywomnur , and welcome.

The brain is a complex bit of kit, and, although we all hope for a linear 'full' recovery after brain injuries, sometimes the brain has other ideas. It's not at all uncommon for there to be peaks and troughs in the process. You're not alone, and this forum, as well as Headway as an organisation, can be very helpful.

Please do join in, ask any questions, even though we're not 'experts' in terms of qualifications, we are, between us in terms of experience. It's not the same as a broken arm, or leg, when the cast comes off, and it's pale, and hairy, but pretty much the same, your brain did more than holding your weight, or your cup of tea, and it will take more time to repair. Stick with it, you'll get there.

[Silmarillion]

Hey Ken

Some of us type B characters want to recover Asap too lol, it just takes time! Your surgery only took place a few weeks ago, give yourself a break and enjoy a wee bit of time relaxing and pottering.....do things at a pace you feel comfortable with and don't worry too much if your very high standards slip for a few weeks. I understand what you're saying though, it can get pretty boring just hanging around....I've been hanging around for 5 months now! I've used my time to do lots of things to put things in place for when I go back to work.....and all those wee jobs I've been putting off for ages.

You can always chat to us on here.....

[cat3]

Are you serious ; 23rdDec ?? Ken, the brain doesn't repair itself in less then a month ; I was still 'out of it' in hospital at the stage you're now at !

Someone should have prepared you better for the after effects of brain injury. Your mind-set and determination will probably be a massive boost to your recovery but such a complex organ as the brain can't be mended by willpower alone.

The healing process can take many months, assisted mostly by a healthy lifestyle and plenty of rest ; pushing too hard to overcome fatigue can, at this early stage, be counter-productive, even detrimental.

I suggest you phone the Headway helpline and ask for all relevant printed information on your condition ; the call and the leaflets are free and you can call on 0808 800 2244 office hours.

All best wishes to you, Cat x

[Hidden]

It took 10 years for me to notice a change in the effects I suffered and I reckon around 25 years to affect a recovery that will not go any further. 50 years on I'm still epileptic with spatial awareness problems. [I've started having problem selecting word to use again and that's worrying me a little].

I reckon you've been comparing yourself to Richard Hammond who claimed BI and was right as rain the next week ...... it doen't happen that way and takes a varying time to happen that differs from case to case.

There's two ways to tackle this, ring Headway or ask your GP for a referral to see a neurologist to get the low down on your particular case. If you want to be clever, do both.

Good Luck