A concussion is a type of traumatic brain injury that athletes commonly get while playing sports, or your regular New Jersey weekend warrior may suffer while doing physical activity. You can also get a concussion after being hit in the head or by rigorously jostling your head. Maybe you thought that the dizziness and the headache would fade after a short period of time, right? But if not? Unfortunately, this could be the beginning of something far more complicated: The Post-concussion Syndrome.
For specialized care, turn to the experts at Genesis Orthopaedic and Spine in New Jersey, serving Middletown, Ridgewood, Westfield, West Orange, Morristown, and surrounding areas such as Belford, Holmdel, Fair Lawn, Midland Park, Clark, Mountainside, Livingston, Millburn, Madison, and Florham Park. Our team focuses on nonsurgical and minimally invasive treatments, helping you find relief from your pain and get back to your daily activities without unnecessary interventions.
For appointments, call us or book online at any of our convenient locations in Middletown, Morristown, Ridgewood, Westfield, and West Orange.
What is Post-Concussion Syndrome
Post-Concussion Syndrome, also known as PCS, is when concussion symptoms continue to linger beyond the typical recovery period. Most concussion symptoms tend to improve within a month, but if they last longer than that, doctors may diagnose Post-Concussion Syndrome (PCS).
To understand why this happens, we need to view the whole picture: at the moment of a concussion, you get a mild traumatic brain injury, even if you don’t get unconscious, the impact can result in the alteration of brain functions. While professionals still discuss what specifically provokes the post-concussion syndrome, we recognise the magnitude of this alteration as something whose recovery may take more or less time depending on the patient.
Symptoms of Post-Concussion Syndrome
While for most people, the symptoms of a concussion will fade after 7 to 10 days, in cases of Post-concussive syndrome (PCS), the symptoms typically last longer than three months after the initial injury. This can be different for each person. They may include:
- Headaches.
- Dizziness.
- Fatigue.
- Irritability.
- Anxiety.
- Depression.
- Trouble falling asleep or sleeping too much.
- Poor concentration and memory.
- Ringing in the ears.
- Blurry vision.
- Noise and light sensitivity.
- Nausea or vomiting.
- Neck pain.
Diagnosis of Post-Concussion Syndrome in New Jersey
Post-Concussion Syndrome (PCS) does not show on any scans or blood tests. At Genesis Orthopaedic & Spine, you will have a consultation with our experienced and compassionate team. During the appointment, our specialists will diagnose PCS based on:
- Your Medical History
- The Types of Symptoms You’re Experiencing
- When your Symptoms Began (before or after a head injury)
You may need brain imaging, such as a CT scan or an MRI scan, to check for structural brain changes, such as damage to brain tissue, and other conditions that may be affecting the brain. However, image testing cannot detect post-concussive syndrome by itself.
What Treatments Are Available for Post-Concussion Syndrome in New Jersey?
You must know that you can’t continue engaging in physical activities or sports until you fully recover and your symptoms dissipate. Your physician at Genesis Orthopaedic and Spine might also recommend:
- Taking time off from school or work, then returning gradually
- Light non-contact cardiovascular exercise
- Limiting your TV, smartphone, and computer time
- Taking acetaminophen (Tylenol) to relieve headaches
- Returning for frequent assessment
- Physical therapy
In post-concussion syndrome cases, our team in New Jersey works closely with physical therapists, neuropsychologists, and other specialists to ensure a rounded treatment approach and a comprehensive recovery.
Request your post-concussion syndrome evaluation by phone or online at Genesis Orthopaedic and Spine promptly after your injury.
Schedule a visit for Post-concussion syndrome treatment in New Jersey today by calling or booking a visit online at Genesis Orthopaedic and Spine.
