What kind of doctor treats post-concussion syndrome?
When concussion symptoms persist for more than six weeks, the patient should seek evaluation and possible treatment for post-concussion syndrome. Patients may be seen by a neurologist, neurosurgeon, or neuropsychologist, depending on need.
What is the best treatment for post-concussion?
There are two treatment options for post-concussion syndrome, generally speaking: active rehabilitation and medication. Active rehabilitation is currently the best treatment protocol for restoring concussion damage.
Where can I get help for post-concussion syndrome?
An emergency room doctor often makes the initial diagnosis of a concussion. Once discharged, you may seek care from your family doctor or primary doctor. He or she may refer you to a doctor who specializes in brain and nervous system disorders (neurologist) or a brain rehabilitation specialist (physiatrist).
How long does post-concussion syndrome usually last?
In most people, symptoms occur within the first seven to 10 days and go away within three months. Sometimes, they can persist for a year or more.
Do I need to see a neurologist for a concussion?
In most cases, it is not necessary to see a neurologist following a concussion. A lot of our patients go to the ER to get checked out in the first few days, which is a very appropriate course of action.
What is PCS treatment?
If PCS causes physical pain in the body, physical therapy can help relieve symptoms. This therapy might include massage, gentle exercise, and heat therapy to relax the body and aid recovery.
How do you treat post concussion syndrome at home?
How can you care for yourself at home?
- Rest is the best treatment for post-concussion syndrome.
- Do not drive if you have taken a prescription pain medicine.
- Rest in a quiet, dark room until your headache is gone.
- Put a cold, moist cloth or cold pack on the painful area for 10 to 20 minutes at a time.
Is walking good for post-concussion syndrome?
Moderate physical activity within the first week of a concussion, even on the first or second day, actually speeds recovery time and lessens the chances of developing post-concussion syndrome.
Can a concussion last for months?
A concussion is an injury that causes the brain to move suddenly and quickly inside your head. Concussion symptoms can last anywhere from a few days to a few months, depending on the severity of the injury.
Does a neurologist treat concussions?
A concussion is a brain injury, and neurologists deal with the brain. While you definitely want to consult a neurologist if you have a stroke or symptoms of a neurodegenerative disease, such as Alzheimer’s or Parkinson’s, they might not be the best choice to help with post-concussion syndrome.
Can a CT scan show a concussion?
Health care providers follow guidelines that recommend performing CT scans only for patients who are at higher risk for skull fractures or bleeding in the brain. Most people with head injuries do not have either of these problems, and simple concussions do not show up on a CT scan.
What doctor treats concussions?
An emergency room doctor often makes the initial diagnosis of a concussion. Once discharged, you may seek care from your family doctor or general practitioner. He or she may refer you to a doctor who specializes in brain and nervous system disorders (neurologist) or a brain rehabilitation specialist (physiatrist).
What is treatment for concussion?
There are two basic types of treatment for a concussion: home and medical treatment. At home, you can usually treat a concussion by applying ice, which may help with swelling and discomfort. You may also use an over-the-counter (OTC) treatment such as acetaminophen for pain, get lots of rest,…
What is a concussion clinic?
Concussion Clinics is a free online tool provided by the Concussion Legacy Foundation that is designed to connect you with local medical providers and clinics that treat concussions.