Stay Alert for Persistent Post-Concussion Syndrome

While most concussion symptoms dissipate over weeks and sometimes months, it’s imperative to stay alert for changes in mood, mental capacity, and physical symptoms. Every brain and every injury is unique, and the potential for persistent post-concussion syndrome is genuine. Overall, it’s estimated that one in five individuals who suffer a concussion will experience symptoms that persist for six weeks or longer. Thus, monitoring your health is essential for ensuring you receive the care you need and don’t exacerbate your injuries.

Concussion Symptoms To Monitor

Persistent post-concussion symptoms can include a broad range of ailments. This includes headaches and dizziness, physical and mental fatigue, anxiety, insomnia, and diminished cognitive function. Individuals may also experience persistent ringing in the ears, blurred vision, sensitivity to lights and sound, and in some cases, diminished taste and smell.

Understanding Why It’s Concerning

Post-concussion symptoms can indicate structural damage to the brain, nerve damage, or both. However, these are not always apparent in the immediate aftermath of a concussion, and they may become more evident as your body recovers.

They can also indicate more significant psychological injuries. These typically manifest as persistent headaches, loss of balance and dizziness, and insomnia. In many instances, individuals with significant psychological trauma, i.e., PTSD, also develop depression and anxiety; these can be magnified if the individual suffered from these conditions prior to the injury. In the United States, women and older individuals are more likely to develop persistent post-concussion syndrome.

Addressing Post-Concussion Syndrome

There is no magic pill or single treatment that can treat post-concussion syndrome. Rather, individuals may be required to undergo surgical procedures, physical therapy, or psychological counseling to address the underlying cause of each ailment.

Individuals who do develop post-concussion syndrome should exercise significant caution and modify their lifestyle to prevent exacerbating their injury. This includes avoiding activities that could cause secondary trauma: specifically contact sports, skiing, bicycle riding, etc. Individuals should also seek complete medical examinations and retain the services of a qualified mental health professional. The more cautious you are and the more comprehensive the medical care, the better the long-term outcome.

Do you have questions about concussion symptoms and your legal options for recovering compensation for your injuries in Colorado? Contact the legal team at Sloat, Nicholson & Hoover, P.C. We’re happy to provide a free consultation to give you the guidance you need to move forward.