After a car accident, it can take a while to regain the life you had, that’s why it can be frustrating when you still don’t feel like you’re back to normal following injury. If your symptoms continue to bother you weeks after your car accident, you may be experiencing post concussion syndrome. We can help you identify the signs so you can get the help you need to fully recover and regain control of your life.
What is Post Concussion Syndrome?
To know what post concussion syndrome is, you first need to understand concussions. A concussion is a mild traumatic brain injury that is caused by a blow to the head, which can often happen in a car accident. Post concussion syndrome happens when your concussion symptoms last longer than they are expected to. Generally, concussion symptoms resolve themselves within two weeks, if your’s persist for longer, then it could be post concussion syndrome. Here are some of the symptoms you should look out for.
1. Headaches
One of the most common telltale signs of both concussions and post concussion syndrome are headaches, especially if they are persistent or get worse instead of better. Pain is your body’s way of that something is wrong and a headache is your brain’s way of telling you that. If you experience frequent headaches after a car accident, seek a professional’s assessment.
2. Fatigue
If you have trouble falling asleep, staying asleep, or are not refreshed after sleeping, that could be a sign of post concussion syndrome. Sleep issues like fatigue or insomnia are common among head injuries, especially concussions. Talk to a medical professional if you are struggling with sleep after your car accident.
3. Balance Issues
If you have trouble walking or standing without assistance following a car accident, that could be indicative of a concussion. If the symptoms persist for more than two weeks following a concussion diagnosis, then it could be a sign of post concussion syndrome. Contact your doctor if you are experiencing dizziness or a lack of balance.
4. Concentration and Memory Issues
Your brain is the information center of your body. Every day it takes in and processes large amounts of information, and when you experience a head injury, it can temporarily cause disruption to this processing system. That’s why it’s common to have difficulty focusing and remembering after a head injury. If you have trouble concentrating, feel confused, or can’t recall events after an accident and it doesn’t improve, contact your doctor.
5. Light and Noise Sensitivity
Concussions can make you more sensitive to noise and lights around you. It’s a sign that your brain is having trouble processing the information around you. If you continue to experience pain or discomfort around bright lights or loud noises for longer than two weeks after your car accident that could be a sign of post concussion syndrome.
6. Vision Changes
A common symptom of concussions is a change in your vision. That could include blurry vision, where your vision seems hazy or out of focus; double vision, where you see two or even three copies of whatever is in front of you; spotty vision, where you may see spots around you; tunnel vision, where your peripheral vision is blocked; or auras, where you see halos of light in your vision. If you experience any of these changes in vision following your accident, consult a medical professional.
7. Mood Changes
After a head injury, it’s common to experience mood changes. If you have suffered bouts of anxiety and depression or have been acting out of character, talk to your medical provider. They can help you determine if it’s post concussion syndrome or if it will benefit you more to discuss your mood changes with a therapist.
What to Do Next
After a car accident, it’s worth your time to put your health first and have your doctor examine any out-of-the-oridinary experiences. If you experience any of the above symptoms, see a medical professional as soon as you can. A professional diagnosis and the right treatment can help you overcome any lingering effects and get back to focusing on the things that matter.
The Care You Need
At Essential Chirocare and Physical Therapy, we help our patients overcome the symptoms that have been holding them back. Our expertise includes treating patients that struggle with traumatic head injuries from car accidents, like post concussion syndrome. Don’t struggle with your symptoms any longer. To learn more about how we can help you address your pain, download our free Ebook. Together, we can help you move forward.
