While a concussion is considered to be a mild traumatic brain injury, it can lead to a complex disorder, known as post-concussion syndrome.  This disorder can last for weeks and even months, causing many problems and a disruption to your life.

There are various causes of head injuries, ranging from a Santa Monica car accident to a slip and fall at an apartment complex.  It can sometimes be difficult to judge the severity of the head injury, as some warning signs of serious trauma do not immediately surface.

Post-concussion syndrome can begin within the first seven to 10 days following a head injury.  What is particularly interesting about this condition is that it is not associated with the severity of the initial injury and the person who is injured doesn’t necessarily have to experience loss of consciousness.

According to MayoClinic.com, some of the symptoms of post-concussion syndrome include the following:

  • Headache
  • Dizziness
  • Fatigue
  • Anxiety
  • Insomnia
  • Irritability
  • Memory loss
  • Sensitivity to noise and light

If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, you should go see your doctor, even if you feel that they are not serious.  You need to find out the extent of your head injury and what treatment may be needed.

There are different opinions as to what causes post-concussion syndrome.  Some medical experts feel that it is the result of damage to the structure of the brain or a disruption of neurotransmitter systems.   Others believe that post-concussion syndrome is caused by psychological factors, since many of the symptoms are similar to post-traumatic stress disorder, anxiety and depression.

Currently, there is no specific treatment for this condition.  Instead, doctors focus on treating the symptoms.  For example, headaches may be treated with medications and physical therapy may be recommended for tension-like headaches.

When a brain injury is caused by someone else’s negligence, such as in an auto accident, motorcycle accident or bicycle collision, you may be able to pursue compensation.  For more information, contact a California brain injury attorney at our office at (800) 989-6385.
Peter Steinberg
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Los Angeles Personal Injury Attorney Since 1982