Most concussions and other mild traumatic brain injuries (mTBIs) should completely resolve within one to six weeks. Some people, however, experience post-concussion syndrome (PCS) with symptoms lasting longer than this. Post-concussion syndrome can include physical, cognitive, and emotional problems, including:
- Headache
- Dizziness
- Difficulty concentrating or completing tasks
- Irritability
- The sense that you “just don’t feel like yourself”
All of these symptoms can make daily life more difficult, both in personal relationships and at work or school. Over time, and especially with treatment, these symptoms will get better.
Long-term effects of concussions are very rare. Moderate to severe traumatic brain injury (TBI) can cause symptoms similar to a concussion, but individuals with these TBIs often experience more severe problems with attention and short-term memory, have difficulty performing daily tasks, and report feeling “slower” overall.
Difficulty making decisions or processing a lot of information, or trouble resolving problems, can have a significant impact on one’s life. It is important to know that — even years after an injury — these symptoms can get better, especially with treatment from a professional with expertise in brain injury.
If you would like an evaluation of your symptoms, whether your head injury was a few days ago or years ago, please call our Concussion Hotline at 212-746-1112 or use our online form to request an appointment. You will be seen within 24 to 48 hours.