Not feeling well

[Catx1978]

I came home from hospital on the 20th December after 5 months since my accident where I suffered a severe brain injury. I've been out a couple of tes and since then, I've suffered a with a cough (I'm asthmatic) headaches and sickness and I'm off my food. Did anyone else find this and will it get better?

[Hon33]

Hi, I’m just new here and don’t have experience of traumatic brain injury. However, I do know that 5 months is a drop in the ocean when it comes to recovery, so don’t expect too much too soon. I would say that headaches and nausea after going out at first, is probably quite normal. My rehab consultant, warned me not to try and push through those but to recognise them as a sign your brain is tired and go with that.

When you go out, the lights, the noise, the movement, making decisions, wearing a mask (atm) - it’s all overwhelming and maybe too much for your brain to process. Take it tiny steps at a time - maybe go for short trips in a car or into a shopping centre and just sit and observe. Take it slowly - watch the world go by for a really short time and go before you feel tired. Build it up gradually.

I found going out in cars dreadful - all types of movement made me sick but I had some vestibular physio, which helped with that.

I still can only manage short times shopping but when I look back now, I can see how much better I am now than I was initially. Sometimes, it feels like you make no progress but don’t look back a week look back a month or more. You will see the progress better that way.

My consultant told me that if I didn’t learn to manage the fatigue and the symptoms of fatigue, it would manage me. Take control and be realistic about what you can do. If you come home and your head is sore and you feel sick, do a little less next time. You’ll find your own limits.

[cat3]

Hi Cat. Apart from the headaches, these aren't familiar after effects of brain injury so maybe a couple of different issues going on.

Have you spoken with your GP about your symptoms. He/she might talk with you at length to see what could be causing your issues or alternatively refer you back to the hospital.

Also, as your discharge was so recent, maybe you could speak with the specialist nurse from the neuro dept where you were treated. Specialist nurses are highly trained and usually more accessible than doctors. Their number will be available from the main hospital switchboard.

These are incredibly early days for you m'love so please be cautious and nurse yourself back to fitness (with loads of rest, healthy food and plain water)....rather than forcing yourself. Take care....

Best wishes, Cat x

[Pairofboots]

Hi Catx, sorry to mention it, but the symptoms you describe could be covid, I would definitely talk to your GP, but also take a lateral flow test. It might be nothing to do with covid, but can never be too careful. 🍀

[Catx1978 in reply to Pairofboots]

I did a lateral flow test and it came back positive so I'm resting up

[Pairofboots in reply to Catx1978]

Best to let your GP know, due to your medical history. Get well soon 🍀