Post Concussive Syndrome

[Muenkel 0]

I was just diagnosed with this due to a bad fall I took a couple weeks ago. I've been doing research on this to learn what to expect.

I figured I would bring it here, since it is probably not uncommon for skydivers.

Would you mind sharing some of your symptoms, length of recovery, etc. How long did it interfere with your job? From what I understand it can last anywhere from 2 weeks to 6 months.

Any info is appreciated.

Thanks folks and stay safe,
Chris

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Chris

[Cornholio 0]

Dude, WTF are you talking about ?? Did you hit your head again ?

Butthead: Whoa! Burritos for breakfast!
Beavis: Yeah! Yeah! Cool!
bellyflier on the dz.com hybrid record jump

[leroydb 0]

description:

In this condition, a minor head Injury (with altered state of consciousness and some degree of memory loss) is followed by impaired brain function in the recovery period. This impairment after a Concussion may not start immediately after the Concussion. When it does start, it may last for weeks, months, or be permanent. Most children with post-concussive syndrome make a complete recovery, over time.

The difference between this syndrome and the recovery period after traumatic brain Injury (serious brain Injury) is that no clear-cut Injury to the brain can be demonstrated on an imaging study (CAT scan of the brain, MRI brain scan) after a Concussion. The brain tissue is intact, there is no skull Fracture, and there is no bleeding into the brain.

A Concussion does not require the child to lose consciousness during the Injury.

symptoms

In the first few days to weeks after a Concussion, a large number of patients will suffer headaches and impaired ability to perform their activities of daily living. This is still part of the Concussion. The post-concussive syndrome is a long-lasting set of changes that occurs after the initial incapacity is over.

In young children, younger than the teenage years, the symptoms are mainly a behavioral change; or regression so that they act much like a younger child.

In teens, the symptoms are more like an adult with post-concussive syndrome: (1) headache and dizziness; (2) apathy and short attention span; (3) impaired memory; and (4) impaired ability to process new information.

cause

Unknown

One theory is that there is decreased blood flow to the brain after a Concussion.

how to diagnose

History of a Concussion (head Injury with altered state of consciousness and memory loss surrounding the time of the Injury, to some extent)

No evidence of serious brain Injury

Symptoms after the Concussion lasting more than 3 months: headache, dizziness, short attention span, mental slowness, apathy, poor memory, behavioral disturbance, any impairment of brain functioning, loss of motor skills

Impairment of brain functioning might be documented by neuro-psychological testing or psychometric testing.

treatment

Parenting in an understanding manner

Counseling by teachers, psychologists, psychiatrists

Behavioral therapy, psychiatric medication

After-school tutoring

Rehabilitation services: occupational therapy, physical therapy

Medication for headaches: acetaminophen, ibuprofen, prescription medicines such as amitriptyline

Vocational rehabilitation, in the case of employed individuals

Leroy


..I knew I was an unwanted baby when I saw my bath toys were a toaster and a radio...

[Muenkel 0]

Yes I did. I took a serious tumble down a flight of stairs on Aug. 16th. My head made a direct hit on a porcelain floor with a concrete base. The initial pain was like a bolt of lightning that started in my head and traveled right down my body to my toes. The pain was so severe that even the morphine (4 shots) and atavan they gave me in the hospital was ineffective.

Leroy, my symptoms are exactly as you posted. Both my Cat Scans came up negative. I did read that info on the net.

I'm trying to gather info from others who may have experienced this and find out what their recovery was like. The doctors are very vague as the recovery is unique to each individual.

Chris

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Chris

[Muenkel 0]

I'm bumping this because unfortunately I am sure some folks out there have experienced this.

I'm looking for serious testimony on anyone's recovery. Right now the pain in my head and eye is pretty severe. Also, there is significant blurriness in my left eye. Symptoms besides the pain include dizziness, confusion, short term memory loss, some nausea, unable to read for long period of times, loss of reading comprehension, unable to put thoughts into words, among many other symptoms. This diagnosis was made by both my GP and an Opthamologist who specializes in brain trauma. My eyesight in my left eye went suddenly from 20/20 to around 20/90. My docs told me that recovery can last anywhere from 1 to 6 months. This accident had nothing to do with the recent tear in my inner ear canal, which seems to have healed.

I know due to the holiday weekend, that less than the usual users are reading the forums. But, I thought I would give it a shot.

Thanks for anything anyone can contribute.

Blue skies everyone and please be safe.

Another question...If I am unable to resume AFF this season, what will I need to do to resume next season and get back on track? I am currently on Cat. D-1.

Chris

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Chris

[pds 0]

oops, i clicked thinking PCS is what happens after reading the silent thread

dayum, chris, your having a hard time of it but i am sure it's gonna resolve itself. get better.

r.e. training: it is my understanding that a mandatory regression of one or more levels pursuant to a check dive is SOP. i am sure i will be corrected by those more qualified than i.

namaste, motherfucker.

[CrazyIvan 0]

Dude, even though I haven't suffered an injury like yours, I can't really contribute or answer your question, but I'm reading your post in SUPPORT, I hope that helps a little.

If you can'f finish your AFF this year, next year you will have to repeat the last level you did (D-1 is AFF 4?) and have a 'ground school refresher', if I'm not mistaken.

Lots of vibes coming your way man.

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Blue Skies and May the Force be with you.

[wmw999 2,595]

I've had a concussion, but nothing like the intensity you described in the original hit, nor like post-concussive syndrome. Just very sleepy for a week or two and some headaches.

But I'll tell you -- jumping is a whole lot more fun, especially when you're in the student phase, if you can really concentrate on it, and not on whether your body will hold up.

One thing I read is that the majority are done with it by 12 weeks out. That seems like a long time, but it's not as long as it would be if you fuck something up.

You're having a hard time getting started -- that sucks.

Wendy W.

There is nothing more dangerous than breaking a basic safety rule and getting away with it. It removes fear of the consequences and builds false confidence. (tbrown)

[VanillaSkyGirl 6]

Chris, I am getting a little frightened. I may have this. I just had a dizzy spell about 45 minutes ago. I have people that can take me to the hospital, but I am waiting until the morning to see my doctor.

I had a violent opening on Sunday that tore a toggle keeper right off. I fought the grogginess and did not pass out. I corrected my spin and landed on my feet. I was taken to the ER that day/night. I thought that I just had some whiplash and a sliced up tongue/gums. I knew that nothing was broken, but I did not realize how hard I had also hit the back of my head. I have been so slow and groggy. I was told by my brother that I am slurring my words a little. I am struggling a little as I just went a little dizzy. I am worried about this. Does anyone know what I am talking about? It is beginning to seem serious.

[Viking 0]

dad your scaring me

I swear you must have footprints on the back of your helmet - chicagoskydiver
My God has a bigger dick than your god -George Carlin

[Muenkel 0]

Rosa,

You're doing the right thing by seeking medical help. I am now up to almost 4 weeks and it is hell. But I think from what you described, my head took a much harder blow. Everyone is different and the doc told me numerous times that I will heal 100%. It has to do with swelling in the brain that interferes with your neurons.

PM me with your symptoms. Maybe we can help eachother out.

Either way, let me know what the doc says.

Feel better sweety,
Chris

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Chris

[jmpnkramer 0]

I have had this happen more than once. Unfortunately I have banged my skull more than a few times with all the different things I like to do.

I can totally relate with the symptoms. As matter of fact I still get frequent headaches(Migraines is what most would call them) but my pain tolerance is pretty high. I will admit though that the pain is so intense that it makes my eyes water.

I guess this only stands to reason as I have had more concussions than Steve Young or Troy Aikemen. The really bad thing is that once you have one they can come more frequently from ther head being banged. I had Six from 98' to 99'. Definitely not a good couple of years for me.

I have definitely noticed issues with concentration. I am trying to finish my Accounting Degree but the brain does not want to co-operate. I have a hard time remembering the topics on tests. I cannot sit and study for long periods of time. It is really frustrating.

I guess for me it is the price I have to pay for being so wild and taking the chances that I do. One thing is for sure I am definitely having fun before I bump the noggin.

I wish I could give you some good advice but unfortunately I cannot. Just get some rest and try not to do too much is about all I can say. Definitely do not Jump!!! I have done it and got lucky.

It is similiar to Hypoxia & Hypothermia in that you are not positive it is happening to you. I hope this helps a little.

Take it Easy,

KRAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAMER!!!!!!!!!!!

The REAL KRAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAMER!

"HESITATION CAUSES DEATH!!!"
"Be Slow to Fall into Friendship; but when Thou Art in, Continue Firm & Constant." - SOCRATES

[oldnewbie 0]

Hiya Muenkel

This is me again, the person with the ear problems!!

I had a closed head injury many years ago. My car was rear-ended by a semi truck, going 45 mph when i was stopped.

To be honest about it, I had just gone on vacation (10 weeks) so I didn't have to do anything important during this time. I didn't realize it at the time, but my mind wasn't functioning at the time. I was in a daze and didn't realize it. I thought it was the meds that i got for the pain that was doing it. It wasn't, since it was just a little bit stronger than asprin.

I still have some memory problems from this (this happened in 1989), but not that many problems now. Basically i was in a fog for years. If you would like more info, just ask, i'll be happy to tell you everything i experienced!! (like the 1800 doctor appointments etc)!!!lol

Good luck, i'm sorry to hear that you are injured, again

[VanillaSkyGirl 6]

Hello Chris,
I seem to be having trouble concentrating, for sure. It's a struggle. It's really strange, so I am trying to rest more. I even forgot about this post, until it popped up from someone having left a post just now.

I hope that you are feeling better. It sounds like you are going through a lot. I will let you know how things develop for me. Bye for now. Feel better.
Hugs,
ROSA

[Muenkel 0]

Steve,

It seems like hell on earth lately. It's been so many weeks now and it only seems to get worse. The pain in my head last night was excruciating. And there's nothing the doctors can do to make it heal faster This happened literally six hours after I felt my ears had healed. Now, I feel the depression setting in. The way I feel right now is Fuck AFF, Fuck my job and leave me alone.

How in the hell did you get through this?

Chris

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Chris