A concussion is a type of brain injury. Someone may sustain a concussion after experiencing a fall or being struck by an object. A concussion may also occur as a result of whiplash or blast injuries, which are common in war zones.
A concussion results in temporary loss of normal functioning. People may exhibit changes in their memory, judgment, balance, coordination, and other areas. Timely treatment can help people with concussions heal the brain and restore functioning.
In some cases, people may have lingering effects of a concussion or brain injury. In these cases, integrative therapies may help people recover functioning and feel more like themselves again.
This article will explore the initial steps people should take to treat a brain injury. You will learn:
- The symptoms of a concussion
- How medical specialists diagnose a concussion
- What initial treatments people may use after sustaining a brain injury
- Innovative treatment that can help people move forward after brain injury
- Where to find concussion treatment in Midland
Contact the specialists at The Hartman Center to explore our holistic approach to brain injury treatment. We are happy to answer your questions or help you schedule an appointment.
Symptoms of a Concussion
Recognizing the symptoms is one of the most important aspects of treating a concussion. Even mild concussions can cause significant symptoms and require treatment. Sustaining a second concussion within a short period of the first can cause permanent damage that cannot be treated.
Some common symptoms of concussion include:
- Headache
- Double vision
- Dizziness
- Memory loss
- Ringing in the ears
- Impaired concentration
- Nausea or vomiting
- Confusion
- Blurry vision
- Difficulty falling asleep
- Loss of sense of smell or taste
If you or a loved one experiences any of these symptoms after an accident, fall, or blow to the head, consult your doctor to determine if concussion treatment is necessary.
While most people with mild concussions recover completely in a short period, some people have symptoms that last for weeks, including:
- A headache that does not go away
- Seizures
- Extreme nausea and vomiting
- Difficulty waking up
- Slurred speech
- Poor coordination
- Weakness
- Numbness
- Loss of consciousness
- A history of multiple concussions
If you experience any of these symptoms or your symptoms do not improve in 10 to 14 days, you must seek immediate medical attention.
Diagnosing a Concussion
Prompt, correct diagnosis is essential in treating a concussion. There are several ways doctors evaluate people for concussions. Here is an overview of the diagnostic process.
Neurological exam
Your medical provider will thoroughly assess your symptoms and perform a neurological exam. This examination includes checking:
- Vision
- Reflexes
- Balance
- Strength
- Sensation
- Hearing
- Coordination
This examination will give your medical team information about your neurological symptoms. It is an essential piece of providing holistic treatment.
Imaging tests
Your doctor may recommend brain imaging tests if you have seizures, severe headaches, extreme nausea, or other worsening symptoms. This type of testing can determine if the brain injury has resulted in swelling or bleeding inside the skull.
A computerized tomography (CT) scan uses several X-rays to look at cross-sections of the brain and skull. Doctors may recommend this test for adults immediately after a brain injury occurs.
If you are experiencing long-lasting concussion symptoms, your doctor may recommend magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). This type of test uses radio waves and magnets to create detailed pictures of your brain.
Cognitive testing
Your doctor may perform a series of tests to assess cognitive effects. These tests will evaluate your concentration, memory, and ability to recall information.
Observation
Depending on your symptoms and other factors, your doctor may ask you to stay in the hospital for observation. Or, you may return home with instructions on how to evaluate your symptoms. If you return home, you must ensure you have someone with you for at least 24 hours. You must alert your medical provider if your symptoms do not improve.
Any concussion can cause symptoms and impair functioning. Recognizing the symptoms and seeking treatment is essential to your long-term recovery.
Initial Treatment for Brain Injury
Many people with mild brain injuries are able to recover quickly at home. However, your doctor will likely recommend a protocol to help your brain recover and heal completely. Here is an overview of some initial treatments for brain injury.
Rest
Your doctor may recommend that you rest your body and brain as much as possible for several days after sustaining a concussion. You do not have to stay in a darkened room in bed–in fact, this may impair your recovery. Instead, limit physical exertion, sports, and things that require focus or attention. This may mean giving up reading, video games, schoolwork, and TV.
After at least 48 hours of relative rest, your doctor may allow you to increase your activity gradually. You may have to adjust your work or school days and continue to avoid vigorous physical activity, including sports. You must also take extreme caution to avoid activities that put you at risk of another concussion.
You will work with your doctor to create a plan allowing you to resume everyday activities. In most cases, people recover completely from a concussion in a relatively short period. Following your healthcare team’s instructions can help you have a quick, complete recovery.
Pain relief
You may experience headaches for days or weeks after sustaining a concussion. Ask your doctor about safe pain relief options. It is unsafe to take Ibuprofen because it might increase your risk of bleeding. Your doctor may advise you to use Tylenol or other drugs to manage pain during concussion recovery.
Gradual return to your routine
As your symptoms begin to improve, your doctor may give you the green light to return to typical daily activities. Your healthcare team will advise you when it is safe to go back to work, play sports, and do other activities. Giving your brain and body a chance to heal is important, so do not rush this process.
Most people recover from concussion symptoms in days or weeks. Follow your doctor’s advice and watch for new or worsening symptoms as time goes on.
What is Post-Concussion Syndrome?
Post-concussion syndrome (PCS) is a condition that results in long-lasting concussion symptoms. People with PCS may experience symptoms of a concussion that last up to a year after the initial event.
Some factors increase a person’s likelihood of developing PCS. These include:
- A complex concussion that involves bleeding insdie the brain, skull fracture, or midline shift of the brain
- Severe concussion symptoms
- A history of mental health conditions, including anxiety, bipolar disorder, and depression
- A history of head injuries and concussions
- A history of other conditions affecting the brain, including attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and learning difficulties
People with PSC may experience physical, behavioral, sensory, and psychological symptoms. Here is an overview of the symptoms of post-concussion syndrome.
Physical symptoms of PCS
- Fatigue
- Nausea
- Sleep changes–sleeping too much or experiencing insomnia
- Poor coordination
Headaches
Mental symptoms of PCS
- Mental fog
- Sluggish or slow thinking
- Memory loss
- Difficulty concentrating
Sensory symptoms of PCS
- Double vision
- Sensitivity to sound
- Difficulty tracking objects
- Trouble seeing things up close
- Seeing stars
- Vertigo
- Difficulty with night vision
- Difficulty with reading
- Sensitivity to light
Behavioral symptoms of PCS
- Uncharacteristic sadness
- Depression
- Thoughts of self-harm or suicide
- Mood swings
- Irritability
- Anxiety
- Agitation or restlessness
People with PCS may have very mild symptoms, or they may experience significant impairment. It is important to watch for new or worsening symptoms and consult a healthcare professional right away.
Post-concussion syndrome may respond well to treatment. There are several innovative, holistic therapies that can help people manage the lingering symptoms of concussion and restore functioning.
What Treatments Can Improve Functioning After Brain Injury?
The Hartman Center offers a range of treatments that can help people reduce the lasting effects of concussion and brain injury, as well as other conditions affecting the brain. Our specialists can also perform diagnostic testing that can identify the roots of specific symptoms and allow us to create the most effective treatment plan possible.
Functional neurology is a holistic approach to restoring brain function after sustaining a concussion. This therapeutic approach uses several therapies to restore brain and nervous system balance. Therapies include:
- Chiropractic care
- Physical therapy and rehabilitation
- Vestibular/balance therapy
- Visual therapy
- Cognitive rehabilitation
- Functional medicine
A functional neurological approach can increase the effectiveness of the brain’s frontal lobe, which can increase your focus and attention. Focusing on healing the brain and body at the same time can lead to better healing and improved outcomes.
Reach out to the dedicated team at The Hartman Center to explore this and other holistic treatment methods.
Find Concussion Treatment
If you or a loved one require concussion treatment Midland, contact The Hartman Center to explore our integrative treatment and support programs. Our knowledgeable practitioners will work with you to find the best solution for your unique needs. Reach out today to learn more or schedule an appointment.