Texas Personal Injury Law: What is Post-Concussion Syndrome?
Post-concussion syndrome is a condition that can follow a head injury, like those suffered in car accidents, slip and falls, and other instances of personal injury.
Post-concussion syndrome (PCS) can have a number of symptoms, but they may not always be easy to detect. PCS can also result in long-term adverse effects and challenges that could have significant impacts on personal injury victims’ lives.
So, let’s start with the first question you likely have. What is post-concussion syndrome?
What is Post-Concussion Syndrome (PCS)?
Post-concussion syndrome, also called PCS, is when the symptoms of a concussion persist beyond what would be the normal recovery time.
Typically, concussion symptoms will resolve within about two weeks. If symptoms last for a month or two, then a doctor may diagnose you with post-concussion syndrome.
Unfortunately, for some patients with PCS, their symptoms may be triggered by too much physical or cognitive activity. This may hinder their physical, social, and professional lives. For other patients, symptoms may worsen during times of rest, leading to insomnia, fatigue, and a feeling of exhaustion.
What are the Causes of PCS?
Post-concussion syndrome is generally the result of an injury or trauma to the head. Even what would initially seem like a mild head injury can result in post-concussion syndrome. The condition may even worsen in the patient has had previous concussions or head trauma.
Instances in which a head injury may result in PCS include;
- Car accidents
- Truck accidents
- Slip and falls
- Sport injuries
- Workplace accidents
Other factors that increase a person’s risk of suffering post-concussion syndrome include age, sex, and prior history of headaches. Research suggests women and older patients may be more susceptible to PCS.
What are the Symptoms of Post-Concussions Syndrome?
Symptoms of post-concussion syndrome can be vague and hard to detect and diagnose, even for doctors. Personal injury victims who develop PCS often report:
- Headaches
- Dizziness
- Trouble sleeping
- Depressed mood
- Irritability
- Anxiety
- Memory trouble
- Difficulty concentrating
While there is not a definitive test for doctors to diagnose post-concussion syndrome, healthcare providers may run other tests to rule out other possible causes of your symptoms. These include:
- Physical exams
- MRIs
- CT scans
- Blood work
Is Post-Concussion Syndrome (PCS) the Same as Chronic Traumatic Encephalopathy (CTE)?
No. PCS is different from CTE even though some symptoms may overlap. While the occurrence PCS may be more likely in patients with prior history of head injuries, a case of PCS is often triggered by a single instance of injury. PCS also forms within minutes, hours, or days of a head injury.
CTE, on the other hand, is a degenerative disease and may not appear until years after an individual suffered head injuries.
How Do I Treat My PCS?
Consult with your healthcare provider. They will be able to identify the best treatment for your symptoms, including migraine or pain medications. In some cases, you may be revered to a specialist such as a neurologist or a psychiatrist to help treat mental health symptoms associated with PCS.
Do You Suffer from PCS After an Accident? Call an Attorney
If you were injured in a car accident, workplace accident, or other personal injury-related incident and now suffer from post-concussion syndrome, call Thomas J. Henry Law. Our law firm has represented numerous clients suffering from head and brain injuries. We can help you receive the treatment you need and the compensation you deserve.
Do not wait. Call now to speak with an experienced personal injury attorney.
