Post-concussion syndrome is a condition in which the symptoms of concussion or a head injury last long after the initial injury. PCS can last for months or years, but the symptoms improve over time, and, in most cases, people make a full recovery.
Long term effects from a concussion are not common. After getting a concussion, the majority of people recover from the initial symptoms within 2 weeks to a month. However, approximately 20% of people will experience PCS and have symptoms that last for longer than 6 weeks.
Concussion symptoms that affect three or more domains which include emotional changes and cognitive impairment for more than 1 or 2 months are indicative of PCS. PCS can last for months or even years, but the symptoms do not worsen. PCS improves over time, and, in most cases, people recover from it.
The symptoms of PCS can include, headaches, dizziness, fatigue, increased sensitivity to light, increased sensitivity to noise, irritability, changes in emotional state, such as becoming more susceptible to stress, depression, anxiety, difficulty concentrating, memory problems, difficulty sleeping, increased intolerance to alcohol, change in appetite.
White matter is tissue in the brain comprising nerve fibers. Damage to this tissue can affect pathways between the brain and the rest of the body, which can create the range of symptoms that people experience with PCS.
Multiple concussions can increase the risk of long term concussion symptoms. It is important that people rest until they are fully recovered after a head injury to allow the brain time to heal properly.
