TBI dizziness

[Mundell]

My son was in a motorcycle accident.  He lost his right leg, his left foot was basicaly reattached, his eye socket right side was replaced and he was diagnosed with severe TBI. He has been on high doses of Oxycotin (80mlg twice dy)and Perkaset while at rehab.  He seemed to do better as far as being able to focus, walk and his severe dizziness was under control.  His new doctor  a internest (wife took him to over a year ago after rehab) cut his dose to 30mlg three times a day.  Mind you this doctor did not even have his medical record NONE of them!  He is now home with his family separated from wife.  My son for the last year has complained of being so dizzy,  not able to focus, is very irritable, having trouble walking and not being able to turn his head at the same time.  Does not sleep well and is tired all the time  Is the dose of Oxycotin to low?  I want to see my son up and active again  Please Help!  

[brokenbrilliant]

Hi -

So sorry to hear about your son!

I'm a long-term multiple TBI survivor who has intermittent issues with balance and dizziness. I have not been able to find any medication that helps me, so I tend to move slowly and watch what I eat -- when my allergies are acting up and my ears feel like they are filled with fluid, my dizziness gets worse.

I haven't had much luck with doctors, either, but I finally found someone who will at least "humor" me and let me get the tests I need. Don't take no for an answer -- and make sure your son's doctor has all his medical records. If the doc doesn't seem to care, then you need to find someone who does.

Good luck to you and your son -- remember, the brain is a remarkable organ, and some recovery may be possible. I consider my TBIs to be factors in my quality of life, but they do NOT prevent me from living life to the best of my ability.

Another thing you may want to consider, is some sort of addiction recovery program -- TBIs can make people more sensitive to drugs and alcohol, which MAY have heightened your son's physical response to the oxycontin. Educate yourself as much as possible about it and your options -- I like www.drugs.com for in-depth information. It could also be that his withdrawal made things harder.. not "just" the TBI.

I, myself, cannot drink or take many drugs. It just messes me up too much. It's all connected. But as long as you don't give up, you and your son still have a chance at putting your lives back together.

Good luck
BB

[Godofredo MD]

Hi.

I'm very sorry to hear about your son's unfortunate accident.

Regarding his medication, oxycodone (Oxycontin) is a narcotic drug prescribed for moderate to severe pain. It was given to your son at higher doses because of the radical surgery that was done on him and was not meant to treat his other symptoms.

The new doctor probably lessened the dosage based on the current pain being experienced by your son, which should have lessened at this time.

Oxycodone is a narcotic drug and might possibly have masked some of his symptoms before. Persons taking this drug are prone to dependence while on it such that its dosage should always be monitored.

His symptoms are most probably due to TBI and would need other treatment options available. He should be brought to his doctor to manage these symptoms.

Hope this helps.