Generally speaking, concussion symptoms typically begin to subside within two weeks after a head injury and resolve completely within 1-2 months. When symptoms persist for longer than what is considered normal, it is known as post concussion syndrome (PCS). Upon receiving this unsettling diagnosis, it is only natural for a patient to wonder: Can post concussion syndrome be permanent?
Can Post Concussion Syndrome Be Permanent?
According to recent research, if a patient has not completely recovered from post concussion syndrome within three years after sustaining the initial concussion, there is a chance that symptoms may continue indefinitely. In other words, the answer is “in some cases, yes.”
What Are the Symptoms of PCS?
Dealing with post concussion syndrome and the symptoms that come along with it can make performing everyday tasks difficult or impossible. Patients may have to take extended time off from school, work or other activities due to cognitive and/or physical issues associated with PCS.
The symptoms of this condition are similar to traditional concussion indicators and may include:
- – Headache
- – Trouble focusing/concentrating
- – Depression & anxiety
- – Fatigue
- – Sensitivity to light & sound
- – Dizziness or vertigo
- – Sleep disturbances
- – Personality changes
The type and severity of PCS symptoms will vary from patient to patient. However, symptoms are likely to be more severe and to stick around for longer if a patient sustains multiple concussions without fully recovering from the first one. Research studies have also shown a link between number of PCS symptoms and recovery time, with patients who experience more symptoms reporting longer recovery periods.
How Can PCS Be Prevented?
Now that you know the answer to “can post concussion syndrome be permanent?” and understand what the condition entails, it’s time to discuss prevention. By far the best way to avoid PCS and other long-term concussion effects is to seek head injury treatment early on.
Visiting a physician who specializes in concussion care will ensure that you get any necessary treatment. Plus, you’ll get reliable advice on managing your symptoms and making a full recovery. In turn, seeking concussion care right away following a head injury will minimize your chances of suffering lasting impacts.
Dr. Timothy Gill Provides Compassionate, Experience-Backed Concussion Care
For accurate concussion evaluation and individualized treatment, patients in the Reading, PA area depend on Dr. Timothy Gill. With years of experience and specialized training in concussion care, Dr. Gill can help you effectively manage your concussion symptoms while providing any necessary treatment.
Dr. Gill is typically available to see patients within 24 hours of a head injury, Monday through Friday. In addition, he offers a weekly clinic for concussion patients. If you or a loved one is showing signs of a concussion, call our office at 610-375-4949 to schedule a time to meet with Dr. Gill. We are here to provide the concussion care you need so that you can recover as quickly as possible and avoid chronic symptoms.
