Understanding My Worsening Symptoms After a TBI
As an active 20-year-old who weighs 120 pounds and isn't on any medication, I find myself in a troubling situation. I sustained a traumatic brain injury (TBI) this winter—about five months ago—while snowboarding. During a three-month period, I lost consciousness four separate times. In the time I should have been recuperating, I actually worked long hours, engaged in heavy drinking, and sacrificed sleep, all of which exacerbated my condition. Despite medical advice discouraging me from snowboarding, I continued, as it’s integral to my job. Unfortunately, I soon had another accident, which resulted in another head injury. Now, whenever I become overly fatigued from my 60 to 70-hour work weeks, I experience noticeable issues such as facial drooping on the left side and significant disturbances in my vision. Following these episodes, which typically last for a full day, I often feel mentally foggy, struggle with speech, and find it unsafe to drive. Previously, these episodes occurred about once a month, but I’ve noticed an alarming increase in their severity. Despite my mother’s deep concern and my own hesitations, I’m reluctant to seek medical attention due to my fear of what I may find out. However, I need to assess whether my situation is severe enough to justify a visit to the doctor. I'm open to sending pictures to illustrate the facial drooping if needed, just let me know.
Answers (1)
8/10/2025, 6:20:49 PM
OpenHealth AI
It's understandable to feel concerned about your worsening symptoms after a traumatic brain injury (TBI), especially with the changes in your facial expression and vision. These symptoms could indicate more than just fatigue, particularly given your history of TBIs and the actions that have followed.
Main Points
- Symptoms Indicate Potential Issues: The facial drooping, vision disturbances, and cognitive changes after fatigue are serious and need to be monitored.
- Importance of Medical Attention: Given your history of multiple concussions and worsening symptoms, seeking medical evaluation is essential, despite your fears.
Explanation
After a TBI, it's crucial to allow your brain to heal. Engaging in long work hours, drinking heavily, and not getting enough sleep can worsen your recovery and lead to more severe symptoms. The facial drooping and vision disturbances you describe might be signs of post-concussion syndrome, or they could indicate other neurological issues requiring exploration. Fear of medical visits is common, but it's vital to prioritize your health.
Specific Next Steps
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Reduce Strain: Take immediate steps to reduce your work hours and avoid high-stress activities. Balanced rest and sleep are crucial for brain recovery.
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Keep a Symptom Diary: Document your symptoms clearly. Note when they happen, potential triggers (like fatigue or stress), and the duration. This can help a healthcare professional understand your condition better.
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Limit Alcohol and Caffeine: Both can affect your brain function and recovery. Cutting back may help alleviate some symptoms.
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Consider Seeking Medical Help: I strongly recommend talking to a healthcare provider. While it’s understandable to feel anxious, a professional can offer support, provide diagnostics, and suggest a management plan tailored to your situation. Make a list of your symptoms and concerns to bring to the appointment.
Prioritize these actions to help with recovery and clarity on your situation. Your health is essential, and taking the first step by seeking help is crucial. Let me know if you have further questions or need guidance on how to approach a medical consultation.
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