Causes and risk factors
A concussion may result when the head hits an object or a moving object strikes the head. A concussion can result from a fall, sports activities, and car accidents. Post concussion syndrome is caused due to disruption in neurotransmitter functions. It can be also psychological such as due to post traumatic stress, or anxiety. Post concussion syndrome is worse in people with history of previous head injury, young age, and history of headaches.
Clinical presentation
Patient with this syndrome presents with headache, altered consciousness, vomiting and giddiness in the acute phase. This is accompanied with feeling of pressure in head. There is ringing in the ears, disturbances in vision. Unequal pupils, unusual eye movements are seen. Patient shows transient memory loss. Convulsions may be present in some patients. Psychological symptoms such as irritability, depressed mood, anxiety are seen. Additional signs include muscle weakness on one or both sides, repeated vomiting, and walking problems. In severe cases patient shows persistent confusion for prolonged period lasting till few weeks.
Investigation
Medical history by the patient and Clinical examination by the doctor helps in diagnosis. Routine blood tests are recommended. Imaging studies such as CT scan, MRI brain is useful for further evaluation.
Treatment
Treatment of post concussion syndrome involves adequate mental and physical rest. Ice fomentation at the affected site immediately after injury is helpful. Medications like analgesics to relieve headache. Anti depressants, anxiolytics, sedatives can be given. Hospitalisation may be required in severe cases. Post trauma stress should be managed.
Other Modes of treatment
The other modes of treatment can also be effective in treating post concussion syndrome. Homoeopathy is a science which deals with individualization considers a person in a holistic way. This science can be helpful in combating the symptoms. Similarly the ayurvedic system of medicine which uses herbal medicines and synthetic derivates are also found to be effective in treating post concussion syndrome.
