Concussions | Postconcussion Syndrome | Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI)
If you’re hurt in an accident where you have a blow or bump to your head, or your neck snaps back and forth, you may experience the classic symptoms of a concussion:
- Headaches
- Nausea or vomiting
- Sensitivity to light or sound
- Confusion or disorientation
- Dizziness or balance issues
You might wonder whether you’ve suffered a concussion or a traumatic brain injury (TBI)? Is there a difference between the two conditions? Are they treated differently?
Concussion vs. Postconcussion Syndrome vs. TBI
There are essentially two characteristics that separate concussions, postconcussion syndrome, and TBI—the severity of your injuries and the length of time that the symptoms persist.
Concussions are generally considered the mildest form of TBI, causing headaches or pressure in your head or neck. You may also experience some balance issues, problems with concentration or memory, sensitivity to bright light and noise, and a general grogginess or sluggishness. Typically, if a head injury is merely a concussion, it will resolve itself within 14 to 30 days, with minimal treatment.
If you have the classic symptoms of a concussion but they persist for longer than a month, you are likely experiencing postconcussion syndrome. Ideally, you have seen your primary care physician and been referred to either a neurologist or a physiatrist, who has put together a treatment plan to help bring you back to full or maximal health. That plan may include physical therapy, speech therapy, occupational therapy, rehabilitation, and individual counseling.
If you lose consciousness as a result of a blow to your head, or your concussion symptoms persist for longer than 90 days, there’s a good chance that you’ve experienced a TBI. Unfortunately, the longer your symptoms persist, the longer it will take and the more difficult it will be to return to full health. There are, however, plenty of treatment options that can dramatically improve the lives of people who suffer a TBI.
Contact Us to Set Up an Appointment
At Advantage Healthcare Systems, we have extensive experience working successfully with individuals who suffer a concussion or other type of TBI. Call us toll-free at 1-877-487-8289 or fill out the form provided below to schedule an assessment. We offer locations across Texas, including Fort Worth, Dallas, and San Antonio.
