Concussions are the most common type of traumatic brain injury. They happen when a sudden impact or blow to the head disrupts your normal brain function — and while many concussions heal within a few weeks, some people experience symptoms that last much longer.
Post-concussion syndrome (PCS) is a complex disorder in which concussion symptoms persist for weeks, months, or even years after the initial injury. PCS can contribute to ongoing physical, cognitive, and emotional challenges, and learning to recognize the signs is the first step to getting the care you need.
Our team at Integrated Neurology Services specializes in concussion care, and we’re ready to help. Here’s what you need to know about PCS and how to start healing.
A concussion occurs when a blow or jolt to the head makes your brain move rapidly back and forth. This disruption triggers chemical changes and damages brain cells, causing symptoms like headaches, dizziness, confusion, nausea, and sensitivity to light or noise.
With the right care, most people recover from a concussion within a few weeks. But in some cases, symptoms persist much longer and PCS develops. The exact cause of PCS isn’t fully understood, but it’s believed to be related to continued brain dysfunction, structural brain damage, or psychological factors following the initial injury.
Anyone who experiences a concussion could develop PCS later on, but certain factors may increase your risk. These include a history of previous concussions, the severity of the initial injury, age (older people may be more susceptible), and pre-existing psychological conditions like anxiety or depression.
Diagnosing PCS can be challenging, because there’s no definitive test to confirm the syndrome. Our experienced team starts with a thorough medical history, reviews your symptoms, and rules out other potential causes for your symptoms before reaching a diagnosis.
The symptoms of PCS can vary widely, but they often include a combination of physical, cognitive, and emotional issues. You might have PCS if you notice any of the following symptoms long after the typical concussion healing timeline has passed.
These symptoms can significantly impact your quality of life, making it difficult to return to work, school, or daily activities following a concussion.
If you suspect that you or a loved one is experiencing PCS, don’t wait to seek medical attention. Symptoms typically continue to persist without treatment, and our team has the knowledge you need to improve your symptoms and your chances of a full recovery.
There’s no one-size-fits-all treatment for PCS, and management involves addressing your individual symptoms. Depending on your needs, we may recommend medication, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), vestibular therapy, and other therapies.
Medications can help manage PCS symptoms like headaches, depression, and insomnia. CBT can be effective for managing the emotional and cognitive aspects of PCS and help you develop coping strategies for anxiety, depression, and mood swings.
For those experiencing dizziness and balance issues, vestibular rehabilitation therapy (VRT) can be beneficial. And last but not least, it's important for anyone with PCS to gradually resume physical and cognitive activities under medical supervision, as well as avoid activities that could risk another concussion.
PCS is a complex and sometimes confusing condition that requires careful management. Understanding the symptoms and seeking appropriate care are key steps to improving your quality of life, and we’re ready to help. Book your appointment at Integrated Neurology Services online, or call our offices in Alexandria, Falls Church, and Lorton, Virginia, today.
