Post-Concussion Syndrome: Signs & Healing Tips

When a person suffers a concussion (a mild traumatic brain injury), they often experience symptoms related to their injury for a few days or weeks. However, these symptoms typically do not persist longer than three months. When they do, the person may be experiencing post-concussion syndrome.

Also known as persistent post-concussive symptoms, these symptoms typically last beyond three months. They can even be present for more than a year and impact the quality of life of the patient. Below, we take a look at this syndrome and offer some of our best healing tips.

Diagnosis

Unfortunately, there is no single test that can conclusively prove that you have post-concussion syndrome. Healthcare professionals instead rely on various tests as well as an examination of your medical history to diagnose the condition. These tests include:

• Neurological exams such as testing coordination, memory and reflexes
• Imaging including CT and MRI scans
• Physical exams including speech, checking for dizziness and more

Symptoms of this condition vary from person to person. However, they may include:

• Headaches
• Dizziness
• Fatigue
• Depression
• Blurry vision
• Anxiety
• Irritability
• Sensitivity to light or noise
• Poor memory or concentration

How to Treat Post-Concussion Syndrome

There is no single post concussion syndrome treatment. Healthcare professionals instead work towards treating your specific symptoms. Because symptoms vary from person to person, treatments vary as well.

Below are some approaches used to address some of the symptoms suffered by patients.

• Headaches

Many people suffer tension-type headaches or migraines. There are various methods that can be applied to treat these migraines including administration of medication.

However, overuse of pain medication can contribute to persistent headaches experienced with this syndrome. It is therefore best to seek other methods to address headaches including manual manipulation.

• Dizziness

Some people experience dizziness or vertigo (a sense that your environment is moving). These symptoms can be effectively addressed using physical therapy or osteopathy.

Physical manipulation may be used to improve balance, prevent falls and reduce your symptoms. This may include manual therapy to improve mobility and reduce musculoskeletal problems, eye movement exercises to improve focus and reduce visual disturbances as well as exercises to enhance balance and coordination.

• Thinking and memory problems

In many instances, these symptoms go away on their own after some time. Time is therefore often the best treatment for these symptoms.

Treatments such as osteopathy can also be effective for allowing the body and brain to heal on their own. Other treatments that can prove helpful for improving thinking and memory include cognitive therapy, speech therapy and occupational therapy.

• Vision changes

Many people suffer vision changes after a concussion. These include changes such as double vision and blurry vision. In many cases, symptoms get better over time. However, you can apply various therapies to help improve your vision including seeing a neuro-optometrist.

• Anxiety, depression and irritability

It isn’t uncommon for people that have suffered brain injuries to display changes in personality or experience anxiety, depression or irritability. When these symptoms persist or heighten after a concussion it may be worth exploring various therapies including psychotherapy, anxiety or depression medication as well as increased physical activity.

• Light or sound sensitivity

Some people become more sensitive to light or sound. While these symptoms often get better with time, they can be bothersome or persistent. Exposure therapy is often used to help ease the symptoms.

Explore Osteopathic Concussion Supportive Therapy with 360 Osteopathy

If you or a loved one is experiencing persistent symptoms following a concussion, don’t hesitate to contact 360 Osteopathy. Explore hands-on treatments including manual therapy, designed to reduce pain and improve your body’s natural healing functions. We’ll help you achieve a more balanced and healthier lifestyle. Contact us today to schedule your consultation.