How long does post concussion head pain and cognitive fatigue last?

I am a 69 year-old retired female attorney. I have likely suffered from ADHD and OCD all my life. I rode horses for 40 years (now retired), first over fences and then in dressage and suffered a number of concussions in horseback-riding mishaps over that time. I experienced post-Covid immunization brain fog after my two Pfizer shots in April 2021, and then suffered a TBI in a car accident that was not my fault a year later. Research of the impact of ADHD on the minds of seniors is still in its infancy. Despite my history, my issues -- brain fog, confusion, cognitive overload, exhaustion, my husband is typing this post because I can no longer navigate digital devices, etc. -- were "diagnosed" by no less than three treaters as Alzheimer's, which a blood test last May proved I didn't have. All other common neurodegenerative processes have been ruled out. A neuropsychologist who conducted an evaluation of my condition blew off the TBI I had sustained in the car accident, saying that because I had no skull fracture or intracranial bleed all effects of the TBI should resolve in 6 weeks to three months. After living with an Alzheimer's diagnosis for four years, my neurologist now says my deficits are the result of "chronic TBIs" exacerbated by anxiety. (Duh!). The ignorance and biases of the medical profession when it comes to these issues is profound, which makes all the more important Mayo's expertise and this chat group for mutual support. I encourage all of you, however, to prepare for yourself and your providers a very detailed medical history going back as far as you can remember and regularly update it with what you notice about your current deficits and how they change over time. Childhood illnesses, traumas, etc. can prove critical to any diagnosis. Don't assume that anything is unimportant. Let your providers decide what is relevant and what is not. And the nature and progress over time of your signs and symptoms -- what's gotten better, what's gotten worse -- is also critically important. Put it all in writing so you will always have it and can refer back to it and supplement it as needed. Above all, remember this was not your fault, be good to yourself, and stay strong.

@ccmedic5 I’m 2 months away from 2 years since my car accident. I’m constantly struggling with headaches, anxiety, depression, nausea etc. I lost 45 lbs after the accident and have only been able to put 10 back on.
I was at a perfect weight 210 lbs 6’3” tall. My wife says I’m too vain to do any harm to myself. I can honestly say that there are nights when I wonder why I’m still on earth. I can read for 30 minutes and then the headaches and nausea start. Just writing this is doing me in. I’m glad I found this group because it’s nice to get my feelings out.
Thanks Mark

EVERYONE is different. My neurologist is certain to stress this. There's no way to predict how long any of this will last. I've worked hard to regain my ability to read and use my desktop computer, but I still need "TheraSpecs" to use my computer, even with the brightness set very low.

@markmac
I am the same. Jan 24 2024. I will never be the same. Tough to live with. Dolly

@mldcinci - how do your "TheraSpecs" help with your computer time?

@lisalucier TheraSpecs offer several lenses which block certain types of light. I got their multi-light blocking lenses, which help me be able to work on my computer without getting migraines. I still need to take breaks and I keep my desktop computer brightness turned very low, but I can now tolerate desktop computer work, something I could not do at all until I got the TheraSpecs. Your optometrist can order the l lenses for prescription glasses, too.

Hello, please forgive me but first time on this site; i`m speaking from the UK. 2 months ago, out cycling i came of my bike, in the rain and smashed my forehead on a scaffold bar; black eyes followed, then fell backwards after becoming very dizzy and disoriented. Up to the local AE, CT scan, x-ray, and diagnosis was Post Concussion.
Never had this, and i am completely baffled as to when these symptoms of chronic fatigue, dizziness, headaches, dry mouth and loss of appetite will eventually disappear. I am 72 yrs young, and cycling means a lot to me, but at the moment i dare not risk going out. Is there anyone out there who is in exactly the same predicament ?, any thoughts and advise would be very welcome
Kind regards
David Lunt

Hear dat!!! Long road to recovery if any. Sometimes it feels like I’m going backwards in health rather than getting better. Besides Functional Neurology professionals? Keep moving so you don’t rust and flexible so you don’t break. I found some help with the videos on http://www.nbia.ca

@markmac
I am a month from 2 years and still suffering as well. I was hit by a car as a pedestrian. I have a moderate brain injury. I have made improvements, currently doing vision therapy however the fatigue, attention and multitasking are poor. I often need a nap after cognitive tasks. I am less patient and have a shorter fuse. I have not returned to work and struggle with the idea I will ever be able to return ( elementary teacher). My whole life has changed. It's hard because many people I would say most don't understand truly. It's very misunderstood. Not visible and usually with other injuries I could soldier on, I have had a double mastectomy. This is different you just can't. It feels as though my brain shuts down my body.
I continue to work towards healing. Onward and upward. I hope you are as well.

@kayabbott
Yes I see a neuropsychologist I am a month from two years yes the first year and a half was hell! But I'm still suffering. Especially with the fatigue. Yes it's up and down for sure and pacing is what I focus on. It's very hard. Unpredictable.
Did you find after 2 years you felt much better? I also had many other injuries.