Concussions are traumatic brain injuries that can cause significant damage throughout the body without prompt medical attention. These brain injuries can be caused by a sudden blow to the head or rapid head movement, usually from falls or participation in contact sports. Here are the immediate and long-term concussion effects and treatment options available to help you recover as quickly as possible.
Immediate Concussion Side Effects
There are certain concussion side effects you may experience immediately after a head injury. If you experience a concussion, you may not recognize some of these symptoms in yourself. These side effects are often observed and reported by loved ones. A traumatic brain injury can affect you physically, emotionally and mentally in a variety of ways. Physical symptoms can include headaches, blurry vision, muscle weakness, loss of balance or motor control and nausea or vomiting.
You may also notice slurred speech, ringing in the ears, dizziness, loss of consciousness, fatigue or sensitivity to light and noise. Some immediate mental side effects can include confusion, forgetfulness, memory loss and irritability. These issues can also disrupt your sleep patterns which can lead to depression, anxiety and the inability to focus on daily tasks.
Long-Term Concussion Side Effects
Many of the immediate symptoms often fade over time with rest, but long-term concussion effects can still occur. Long-term side effects are most common with repeated head trauma, but can happen days or weeks after a first-time concussion. These signs frequently occur for a period of over three months as the result of changes to brain wave patterns and motor pathways. These long-term effects can include memory loss, depression, coordination issues and changes in normal behavior.
Treatment Options
Treatment options for concussion side effects can vary by individual depending on the overall severity. The full recovery process can take weeks or months, so you may need to be patient. An accurate diagnosis may require several types of cognitive and imaging tests by a team of specialists. During the first 48 hours, symptoms may need to be monitored by medical professionals to help you achieve an optimal recovery.
Treatment options may include a combination of medication, behavioral therapy and physical training exercises. Avoid any activities or environmental factors that can worsen symptoms like bright lights or tasks requiring concentration or focus. Get plenty of rest. If you are an athlete, you may want to make sure your brain is completely healed before putting yourself at risk for injury again. A doctor specializing in neurological disorders can recommend the best treatment plan to meet your specific needs for a full recovery.
Professional Neurological Treatment for Concussion Side Effects in Arizona
If you suspect you may have concussion side effects, seek immediate medical treatment. Delaying treatment may lead to irreversible damage. Foothills Neurology specializes in the treatment of a comprehensive range of neurological disorders for individuals residing in Arizona. The experienced team of specialists can help you manage and treat your symptoms so you can enjoy a healthy and active lifestyle. Call to schedule a consultation today.