Understanding Appetite Loss and Excessive Sleepiness Post-Concussion
As a 24-year-old male, I experienced a serious incident when a large truck, unable to see my smaller sedan parked in a lot, ran over the back of my car. This unexpected impact rendered me unconscious, leading to a diagnosis of concussion. A CT scan at the emergency room effectively ruled out the possibility of a stroke. In the aftermath, I have been grappling with various symptoms including dizziness, blurred vision, significant irritability, and an unusual tendency to doze off in unforeseen situations, like while eating — a point I’ll elaborate on shortly. Additionally, I received diagnoses for strains in my neck, back, and legs following MRIs, although the physical discomfort I feel is quite manageable. The experience is predominantly mental; I face challenges with memory retention, concentration, and my overall cognitive function fluctuates unpredictably. This inconsistency also impacts my emotional state, visual clarity, and physical stamina. Since the accident last Tuesday, I have struggled significantly with my appetite. Despite standing tall at 6 feet and weighing around 210 pounds, I find myself barely able to manage a few bites of a banana, let alone a substantial meal. Having actively trained for more than eight years, my typical caloric intake hovers around 4,000 calories. I have maintained my workout regimen, which includes weightlifting and a current testosterone replacement therapy of 250 mg per week. I’m fully aware that adequate nutrition is crucial for recovery, but I simply lack the ability to eat. I often prepare food, only to drift off at the table, waking up to find my head resting on the counter. In one incident, I even dozed off while drinking a protein shake and woke to a mess of spilled liquid on myself. Absurdly, I haven’t lost any weight thus far, though I’m increasingly worried. It seems I am sleeping more than 10 hours daily, yet this rest is fragmented with unexpected naps occurring at the dinner table, as a passenger in a vehicle, or even while working at my desk.
Answers (1)
8/3/2025, 1:01:54 PM
OpenHealth AI
It sounds like you're experiencing significant challenges following your concussion, particularly with loss of appetite and excessive sleepiness. These symptoms can indeed be concerning, especially given the impact they have on your recovery and overall health. Let’s break down your situation and focus on actionable steps to help you move forward.
Main Points
- Increased Sleepiness and Cognitive Challenges: Both are common after a concussion but should be monitored closely.
- Appetite Loss: This can be affected by concussion-related symptoms like nausea or changes in metabolic needs.
- Need for Balanced Nutrition: It’s crucial to support your recovery through adequate nutrition.
Explanation
After a concussion, it's normal for the brain to need more energy and rest to heal. The symptoms you're experiencing, including dizziness, memory issues, and heightened irritability, can certainly affect how often and how well you eat. It's also possible that the stress of the incident is contributing to your appetite loss and makes you feel more tired than usual.
Given your history of intense training and dietary needs, the abrupt change in appetite is particularly concerning. The body needs nutrients to heal, and while it’s good that you're not losing weight, it's important to ensure you're still providing it with the calories and nutrients it needs.
Next Steps
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Prioritize Regular Nutrition:
- Try consuming smaller, more frequent meals rather than three large ones throughout the day. This might be easier given your current appetite.
- Focus on nutrient-dense foods that are easy to digest. Foods like smoothies, yogurt, nut butter, and protein shakes can provide calories without requiring too much effort to eat.
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Monitor Your Sleep Patterns:
- Keep a sleep diary to track not just how long you sleep but when you feel especially drowsy during the day. This information could be useful for identifying patterns.
- Consider making your sleeping environment as restful as possible and try to establish a consistent sleep schedule.
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Cognitive Engagement:
- Engage in light cognitive activities to help stimulate your mind, such as reading shorter articles, watching brief videos, or playing simple games. This can help address your concentration and memory challenges without overwhelming you.
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Hydration:
- Adequate hydration is also crucial for recovery. Make sure to drink plenty of fluids throughout the day to avoid dehydration, which can worsen both cognitive function and physical recovery.
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Gradual Increase in Activity:
- If your medical team hasn’t guided you yet, consider incorporating light activity such as short walks, which might help improve both your physical and mental fatigue.
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Document Your Symptoms:
- Document your ongoing symptoms and any changes in your sleep, appetite, or cognitive ability. This information can assist healthcare providers if you choose to discuss it with them later.
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Reach Out for Support:
- If you continue to struggle, consider confiding in a trusted friend or family member who can check-in with you regularly to help manage these difficulties.
These steps are intended to create a manageable routine that balances your recovery needs while supporting your cognitive and physical health. Make sure to listen to your body and adjust as needed. If your symptoms worsen or do not improve, seek guidance from a healthcare professional who is familiar with post-concussion syndrome. You're not alone in this, and taking it step by step can help you regain your well-being.
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