Post-concussion syndrome is a problem which impacts a lot of people, yet you may not be aware of its existence, let alone its implications, until you suffer from it yourself.
Here is a rundown of the main talking points regarding post-concussion syndrome, to bring you up to speed so you are better prepared.
The causes & symptoms
Concussions are the result of brain injuries, with the trauma suffered by your grey matter potentially being brought about by everything from a fall at work to an impact received while playing team sports.
Any concussive event could result in post-concussion syndrome, as explained in this guide. Injuries which interrupt the flow of blood to your brain cells can create disruption to the signals they send and receive, and this can manifest in various symptoms, from pain and dizziness to nausea and memory issues.
In the case of a normal concussion, such symptoms can go away in a matter of days or weeks, but post-concussion syndrome describes a situation in which the symptoms stick around for more than three months, potentially lasting years in certain instances.
The action to take
After any head injury, you should consult a medical professional as soon as possible, especially if you are suffering from symptoms of a concussion. This is necessary to avoid running the risk of developing more serious issues, such as clots and permanent brain damage. Experts will determine whether or not a brain scan is necessary and, if so, what steps are needed based on the results of this scan.
Mild concussions will generally improve and heal in a comparatively short amount of time, but if the aforementioned symptoms persist for longer than is normal, you should return to your doctor and let them know how you are feeling, as you may be suffering from post-concussion syndrome.
The good news is that this syndrome is not a permanent issue, and can be treated in a number of ways, with prescriptions medicines available, along with natural remedies and supplements, the efficacy of which is not proven yet may still be helpful.
The preventative measures to try
Most importantly, if you become concussed due to a head injury, you should aim to minimize the symptoms and avoid exacerbating the issue, in turn limiting the likelihood of post-concussion syndrome arising.
This can be achieved by avoiding intense physical activity until you are feeling more normal, and even then being cautious about going from 0 to 60 straight away when you begin returning to your typical workout routines and pastimes.
You should also steer clear of alcohol and recreational drugs if you are recovering from a concussion, and also prevent yourself from being put in stressful situations, which may mean taking time off work or school, depending on your circumstances.
Repeated concussions can leave you more prone to post-concussion syndrome, and as more is understood about this condition, more will be done to deal with its symptoms and treat it successfully.
