Seeking Guidance After Head Injury and Ongoing Symptoms
Hello everyone, I’m reaching out for some guidance regarding my current health situation. I am a 19-year-old female and experienced a slip and fall on stairs last January, which led to a concussion as well as pain in my neck, hip, and shoulder. Initially, I didn't experience confusion, but I did have extreme sensitivity to light and struggled to perform simple tasks like brushing my hair. In February, I went to the emergency room where they discovered I have a benign arachnoid cyst. Additionally, I’ve had past head injuries from motorcycle accidents and encounters while playing soccer. At around two years old, I also had typhoid and chickenpox at ten. I have undergone physical therapy in the past, but it didn't alleviate my symptoms. As I approached March and April, I began to experience pervasive itching, an increase in hunger, troubles with sleep, and my skin started to redden. By May, I developed involuntary movements, difficulties with walking, decreased mobility, and I was struggling with memory loss regarding my friends. I also encountered elevated heart rates and difficulties with bowel movements. Despite undergoing an MRI of my brain and neck that yielded no significant findings, I was prescribed a low-dose of duloxetine for anxiety and pain management. In June and July, I faced excessive sleepiness, gait issues, potential confusion (despite being multilingual), and I had to be hospitalized for internal medicine evaluations. The psychiatric team suspected my situation was not purely anxiety-related but considered the possibility of catatonia or Functional Neurological Disorder (FND) as well as systemic lupus. I was prescribed anti-psychotic medication, specifically lorazepam, but saw no improvements. My autoimmune tests returned normal, yet I had elevated markers of inflammation along with GERD, sinus tachycardia, and confusion. Despite being in acute rehabilitation, I did not achieve significant progress. Moving into September, I consulted a chiropractor who assessed my C1 and C2 vertebrae and noted that I began to walk better, sleep well, and communicate more effectively. My previously diagnosed “PNES” symptoms diminished markedly, and I started experiencing vivid dreams featuring people from my past, whom I had forgotten. Currently, I have been practicing Tai Chi and Qi gong, as well as taking multivitamins and attending therapy. Nevertheless, I am now dealing with significant acid reflux, abdominal and chest discomfort, potential blood in my urine, and symptoms like tinnitus, feelings of faintness, vision disturbances, and intense headaches. I also experience weakness, pain in various body parts, and sensations resembling electric shocks in my back that intensify around my menstrual period, alongside heavy feelings in my legs and ankles. When I lie down, I occasionally find myself jerking awake, and although my full body movements are mostly reduced, I sometimes notice involuntary arm movements. This journey has been incredibly frustrating. I’m committed to my recovery and have been actively seeking advice from my therapist and chiropractor. However, I wish to manage my symptoms better—such as frequent burping, acid regurgitation, and the occasional near-fainting spells while cooking or walking. I have arranged appointments with a sleep specialist due to my vivid dreams and difficulties waking, and with a gastrointestinal specialist. I'm also considering consulting a physiatrist or exploring vestibular therapy. Is there anyone who can offer suggestions or point me toward additional resources for help? I truly appreciate your support and advice. Thank you!
Answers (1)
2/15/2026, 6:01:10 AM
OpenHealth AI
I'm sorry to hear about the challenges you're facing. It sounds like you have been through an incredibly complex and frustrating health journey following your head injury, and I commend you for your proactive approach to seeking help. Let’s address your concerns, focusing on your current symptoms and how to manage them effectively.
Main Points:
Your ongoing symptoms—such as acid reflux, abdominal discomfort, faintness, headaches, and involuntary movements—are understandably distressing. It's essential to prioritize symptom relief and ensure you are getting appropriate care and support.
Explanation:
Given your history and the symptoms you've described, it seems you might be dealing with a combination of post-concussive syndrome, potential autonomic nervous system issues (which could explain the faintness and tachycardia), and perhaps some gastrointestinal complications. Your active engagement in therapies like Tai Chi, Qi Gong, and counseling is excellent for overall wellness, but addressing specific symptoms is crucial for better quality of life.
Next Steps:
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Monitor and Document Symptoms:
- Keep a detailed journal of your symptoms including when they occur, their intensity, and any triggers you notice. This can help your specialists develop more tailored treatment strategies.
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Acid Reflux Management:
- To address acid reflux and related gastrointestinal symptoms, consider:
- Eating smaller, more frequent meals instead of large meals.
- Avoiding trigger foods and beverages (e.g., spicy foods, caffeine, chocolate, and alcohol).
- Elevating the head of your bed to help reduce nighttime symptoms.
- Discussing possible treatments or medication adjustments with your gastrointestinal specialist if symptoms persist.
- To address acid reflux and related gastrointestinal symptoms, consider:
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Addressing Neurological Symptoms:
- Continue your therapy regimen, and inform your therapist about any changes in your symptoms. This may include adjustments in techniques like Tai Chi or additional physical therapy focused on stability and mobility.
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Explore Involuntary Movements:
- Since there has been progress in reducing these symptoms, further assessment by a neurologist may be useful. They may consider whether neuromuscular or functional aspects are contributing to your symptoms.
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Sleep Issues:
- Follow through with your sleep specialist appointment. Discuss the jerking awake episodes and any feelings of faintness upon waking. These can provide crucial insights into your current sleep patterns and potential interventions.
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Stay Hydrated and Nourished:
- Ensure you’re drinking enough fluids and avoiding dehydration, which can exacerbate many symptoms including headaches and faintness.
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Consider Stress Management Techniques:
- Incorporating mindfulness or relaxation techniques might help with anxiety, stress, and overall symptom management. Resources like apps for guided meditation can be beneficial.
Support:
Remember, you are navigating a difficult path, and it’s okay to seek ongoing support from healthcare professionals and loved ones. Don’t hesitate to reach out to your existing support network for emotional and practical assistance.
Please keep me updated on your progress and let me know if you have specific areas you’d like further assistance with!
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