If you or a loved one has recently been diagnosed with a concussion or post-concussion syndrome, you may have many lingering questions about symptoms and treatment in these situations.
At Oak Physio & Wellness, we believe in helping our clients take back control of their health and recovery. In this blog, we discuss the symptoms and treatment of a concussion vs. post-concussion syndrome. For more information on functional medicine and wellness, browse our website or book your appointment today.
What is a Concussion?
Concussions fall under the category of traumatic brain injury (TBI). These injuries result from impact or mechanical force colliding with or jarring the body or head in a way that generally causes mild head injury.
Concussions, though severe, happen frequently and may be referred to in the medical community as an mTBI or minor traumatic brain injury. Don’t be confused by this classification. If you suspect your or a loved one suffers from a concussion, seek medical attention immediately.
Concussion Symptoms
Concussion symptoms may vary depending on the severity and location of the injury. However, common symptoms include:
- Headache
- A feeling of pressure in the head
- Dizziness
- Sleepiness
- Blurred vision
- Balance issues
- Light sensitivity
- Confusion
- Memory issues
- And other cognitive symptoms
Regardless of your symptoms, seek prompt medical attention for any suspected concussion.
Concussion Treatment
The most common treatments for concussions involve rest and close monitoring until symptoms have passed. In some cases, doctors may use other methods of medical intervention to resolve the acute symptoms of a concussion.
What Is Post-Concussion Syndrome?
Having a concussion is a risk factor for post-concussion symptoms. This cluster of symptoms presents many challenges to doctors attempting to pin it down, most likely because each case is unique.
The post-concussion syndrome occurs when a change in normal brain function resulting from a concussive injury lasts longer than the typical recovery pattern for concussions.
Post-Concussion Syndrome Symptoms
Symptoms of the post-concussion syndrome vary but include:
- Headache
- Nausea and vomiting
- Vision issues
- Tinnitus
- Difficulty sleeping
- Fatigue
- Neck pain
- Dizziness
- Difficulty concentrating
- Anxiety
- Depression
- Irritability
For some, the post-concussion syndrome may present with memory loss and difficulty reading. If you notice any cognitive or neurological changes, speak with your doctor as soon as possible.
Post-Concussion Headache Treatment
Doctors diagnose post-concussion syndrome using a combination of patient history, current symptoms, neurological exams, and oculomotor vision tests. In some cases, an orthopedic exam may also show doctors issues with mobility or cervicogenic movement.
Find Relief And Wellness With Oak Physio & Wellness
Comparing a concussion vs post-concussion syndrome, the latter can result in prolonged challenges. While concussions can cause serious issues in the short term, the lingering post-concussion syndrome can cause headaches, cognitive difficulties, and other problems far past the recovery time of the initial injury.
Fortunately, relief is out there. At Oak Physio & Wellness, we offer our clients access to a comprehensive range of functional medicine services, including chiropractic, orthotics, massage therapy, and physiotherapy in Oakville.
To find out how Oak Physio & Wellness services may help provide relief for post-concussion syndrome, book your appointment today. Call Oak Physio & Wellness at 289-725-0241 to get started.