Head injuries can happen to more people than you might think. A football tackle gone wrong, a slip on icy pavement, or a car accident can all result in a concussion that changes your life in an instant. While most people expect to recover from a concussion within a few weeks, the reality is that some individuals experience symptoms that persist for months or even years.
If you or a loved one continues to struggle with headaches, dizziness, memory problems, or other concerning symptoms weeks after a head injury, you may be dealing with post-concussion syndrome. The good news is that these lingering symptoms aren’t something you have to accept as your “new normal.” With proper treatment and support, recovery is possible.
Post-concussion syndrome risk factors
Not all concussions will necessarily cause long-term side effects. However, there are some predictors that researchers have found can increase the likelihood of a person experiencing post-concussion syndrome.
- Older age (studies of children vs. adolescents)
- Previous concussions
- Severity or number of initial symptoms
- Existing presence of anxiety or depression
The brain needs time to heal after trauma, and rushing back to normal activities too quickly can sometimes prolong the recovery process. This is why recognizing the signs of post-concussion syndrome becomes crucial for getting appropriate care both in the short-term and long-term.
Signs of post-concussion syndrome
Post-concussion syndrome, sometimes referred to as persistent post-concussive symptoms, occurs when concussion symptoms continue beyond the typical recovery timeframe. Medical professionals generally diagnose this condition when symptoms persist for more than three months after the initial injury.
Family members and friends often notice changes in their loved one before the injured person recognizes them. Being aware of these warning signs can help ensure you advocate for timely treatment.
Physical signs include:
- Persistent headaches that may worsen with activity
- Dizziness or balance problems
- Nausea or vomiting
- Sensitivity to light and noise
- Fatigue that doesn’t improve with rest
- Sleep disturbances or changes in sleep patterns
- Blurred or double vision
Cognitive symptoms often involve:
- Memory problems, especially with recent events
- Difficulty concentrating or focusing
- Feeling mentally “foggy” or slow
- Problems with decision-making
- Trouble finding words or organizing thoughts
Emotional and behavioral changes may present as:
- Increased irritability or mood swings
- Anxiety or depression
- Personality changes
- Social withdrawal
- Loss of interest in previously enjoyed activities
Children may show slightly different signs such as changes in eating habits, increased crying, loss of interest in school or play, or regression in previously mastered skills.
Treatment options for persistent post-concussion symptoms
The key to healing from post-concussion syndrome lies in addressing the specific symptoms each person experiences. Treatment approaches typically combine multiple strategies, ranging from emotional to physical approaches.
Physical therapy can help with a lot of these things, and our providers at your local Panther clinic can help you understand where to go from initial evaluations to specialist treatments if you or your loved one needs more support.
Physical rehabilitation
Physical therapy plays a central role in treating many post-concussion symptoms. Concussions often coincide with musculoskeletal pain in areas like the neck and shoulders that can spin off to cause additional symptoms.
Vestibular physical therapy can address dizziness and balance issues, including vertigo, by retraining the inner ear and brain to work together effectively. This type of therapy uses specific exercises to reduce symptoms and improve stability.
Exercise therapy, when properly supervised, helps restore normal activity levels without triggering symptom flares. Physical therapists trained in concussion management understand how to gradually increase activity while monitoring for symptom return.
Cognitive rehabilitation
Speech-language pathologists and occupational therapists can help address cognitive symptoms through targeted exercises and strategies. Memory training, attention-building activities, and organizational skills development can significantly improve daily functioning.
Vision therapy
Since many people with post-concussion syndrome experience vision problems, specialized vision therapy can be extremely beneficial. Optometrists trained in post-concussion vision issues can prescribe specific exercises to improve eye coordination, focusing abilities, and visual processing.
Psychological support
The emotional impact of persistent concussion symptoms shouldn’t be underestimated. Counseling or therapy can help individuals develop healthy coping strategies, address anxiety or depression, and work through the frustration of dealing with ongoing symptoms.
Medical management
While there’s no specific medication for post-concussion syndrome, primary care doctors may prescribe treatments for individual symptoms. Headache medications, sleep aids, or antidepressants might be recommended based on each person’s specific needs.
Concussion treatments in the North Suburbs
If you or a loved one continues to struggle with symptoms following a head injury, specialized care can make a significant difference in your recovery journey.
At Panther Physical Therapy, our providers understand the complex nature of post-concussion syndrome and offer comprehensive evaluations to identify the specific areas where you need support.
Start the conversation about your or your loved one’s experience with head injury symptoms by calling one of our clinics or by requesting your first appointment online today.