11 Apr Are There Long Term Effects Of A Concussion?
The long-term effects of a concussion can have significant impacts on an individual’s health and well-being. At New York Sports Medicine Institute, we have seen numerous patients who have experienced a concussion and have long-term effects. Our concussion care experts are here to discuss the common long-term effects of a concussion and tips for managing them. Continue reading to learn more!
What Is A Concussion?
A concussion is a type of traumatic brain injury (TBI) that occurs when the brain hits the skull. This can disrupt the normal functioning of the brain and can lead to various symptoms, such as headaches, dizziness, and confusion. Most concussions occur during sports but can also occur after a fall or blow to the body that causes the head to jerk rapidly back and forth. Concussions are often complex injuries that can have long-term effects that impair several aspects of an individual’s health. Concussions are invisible injuries, so it’s crucial to be vigilant and watch for any changes after a collision or fall. Our experts at New York Sports Medicine Institute provide comprehensive concussion care to help patients deal with this traumatic injury’s short- and long-term effects.
Long-Term Effects Of A Concussion
- Post-Concussion Syndrome (PCS) – PCS is a condition that can develop after a concussion and can last for several months or even years. Symptoms of PCS can include headaches, dizziness, difficulty concentrating, and irritability. The exact cause of PCS is unknown, but it is believed to be related to the damage to the brain caused by the initial injury.
- Cognitive and Emotional Changes – Concussions can cause long-term cognitive and emotional changes, including memory problems, difficulty concentrating, mood swings, and depression. These changes can significantly impact an individual’s quality of life and make it difficult to perform daily activities.
- Vision Problems – Concussions can also cause vision problems, including blurred vision, sensitivity to light, and double vision. These symptoms can result from damage to the brain’s visual system and can last for an extended period.
- Post-Traumatic Headaches – Post-traumatic headaches can occur after a concussion and can result from damage to the brain or changes in blood flow to the brain. These chronic headaches can be severe and debilitating and can last for several months.
Managing Long-Term Effects Of Concussions
- Rest and Sleep – One of the most important things you can do to manage the long-term effects of a concussion is to get plenty of rest and sleep. This can help reduce symptoms such as headaches and fatigue.
- Avoid Physical Activity – It is essential to avoid physical activity, including sports and exercise, until you have fully recovered from a concussion. Returning to physical activity too soon can increase the risk of further injury and prolong recovery.
- Cognitive Rest – Cognitive rest involves avoiding mentally demanding activities such as reading, using a computer, or watching TV. This can help reduce symptoms such as headaches and difficulty concentrating.
- Seek Medical Attention – If you are experiencing the long-term effects of a concussion, it is essential to seek medical attention. Our concussion experts can provide guidance on managing symptoms and developing a recovery plan.
New York Sports Medicine Institute offers the following concussion care services:
- Balance and Vestibular Testing
- Rehabilitation Therapy
- Neurocognitive Assessments
- Pre-Season Screening Coordination
- Post-Injury Physical and Neurocognitive Assessments
- Educational Training and Workshops
Contact Us
A concussion can have long-term effects on an individual’s health and well-being. If you have experienced a concussion or are experiencing long-term effects, New York Sports Medicine Institute is here to help. Our concussion care experts can provide guidance on managing symptoms and developing a recovery plan. Be sure to contact our office today to learn more and request an appointment!