Information
My Vestibular history is quite extensive, starting as an infant. I had a negative reaction to an immunization, causing nerve damage, evident in a hearing loss. I have always struggled with balance, finally learning to ride a bike as a teenager. Life handed me some trauma in the forms of losing my son (yes, it was years ago), a near death experience in January 2020, and a month after that, another horrible experience that left me with documented PTS. One year later, I sustained a concussion. Two days after that, I woke with debilitating vertigo. At the hospital, they did not do any scans, in fact, the doctor never even touched me during my visit. It was covid days, so times were strange. The medication to stop my symptoms worked, so they sent me home. I went to a chiropractor 3 times a week for 6 months to get the vertigo manageable; lived with that for about 2 years. Then in May 2024 I got Shooter's Ear and amazingly, it cured 75% of the vertigo! But I believe that is when other symptoms stated manifesting.
Frequently asked questions
Can Shooter's Ear cause SPD?
While Shooter's Ear is a specific type of hearing damage resulting from noise exposure, it is not directly a form of SPD. However, there is a connection because hearing loss can contribute to or worsen SPD.
Here's why:
Shooter's ear is damage to the hearing system caused by loud noises, specifically gunfire. It is often asymmetrical, meaning one ear is more affected than the other, typically the ear opposite the shooting arm.
Hearing loss can lead to difficulties in processing sounds, which is one form of sensory information. This can impact auditory development, leading to potential SPD.
Children with hearing impairment are more susceptible to SPD, including auditory processing disorders.
The inner ear's role in balance and gravity, crucial for processing other senses, can be affected by hearing impairment, further increasing vulnerability to SPD.
In summary: Shooter's ear is a specific cause of hearing loss, and hearing loss can be a risk factor for or contribute to the development or worsening of SPD. Therefore, while not directly the same, they are connected because hearing damage can negatively impact sensory processing.
Do concussions cause SPD?
Yes, concussion is a significant factor that can affect sensory processing and potentially lead to or exacerbate SPD. A concussion is a mild form of traumatic brain injury, TBI.
Important considerations:
PCS: Some individuals may experience persistent symptoms after a concussion, including sensory processing difficulties, known as post-concussion syndrome.
Severity of symptoms: The severity of sensory issues after a concussion can vary, but even mild injuries can lead to problems with sensory processing.
Management Strategies: Various strategies and therapies, such as sensory diets and occupational therapy, can help individuals cope with concussion-related sensory sensitivities and overload.
In summary, concussion can significantly impact sensory processing, potentially causing or contributing to SPD-like symptoms or sensory overload. It's essential to seed medical attention if you suspect a concussion or notice persistent sensory issues after a head injury.
Can a concussion that happened 4 years ago cause SPD?
Yes, here's why:
Brain injuries can affect sensory processing.
Delayed onset of symptoms; some symptoms may not surface for months or even years after the initial injury. When this happens, it's referred to as Post Concussion Syndrome, PCS.
Sensory sensitivity is a common PCS symptom; Many individuals with PCS experience heightened sensitivity to things like light, sound, and touch. This sensory sensitivity is a key characteristic of SPD.
DEEP DIVE INTO CONCUSSION-RELATED SPD
Challenges:
**Brain's disrupted filters: easy to become overwhelmed by sensory stimuli.
**Neural pathway disruptions: causing hypersensitivity or overstimulation.
**Cognitive and emotional overload: the brain already working hard to heal and stabilize, may be less efficient in processing input.
**Fatigue and stress: ongoing pain, fatigue and stress can put individuals on edge.
Symptoms of SPD:
Heightened sensitivity to light, sound, touch, smell
Struggle with:
mood swings, anxiety, fear, difficulty focusing mentally
THERE ARE FAR TOO MANY POSSIBLE SYMPTOMS
Coping with SPD:
**Self monitoring and awareness: recognize your triggers and sensory overload early on.
**Immediate strategies: remove yourself from the environment to seek quiet; close your eyes to block out stimuli; use deep breathing exercises.
**Environmental modifications: avoid crowded and chaotic places, modify lighting, use noise-cancelling headphones to reduce sound input, reduce visual clutter.
**Increase tolerance gradually
**Seek professional support
**Inform your support system; educate family and friends about your needs and triggers so they can offer support and understanding.