The Effects of a Concussion Can Last for Years

When you experience a concussion in Wichita KS, you may assume that you are fine because symptoms do not show up right away. Remember that your brain has suffered a major trauma, and it may take time for the effects of the blow to your head to become obvious.

What Happens to Your Brain during a Head Injury?

When you fall onto hard pavement, hit your head against something, or suffer an assault, the sudden and intense jerking motions of your head and neck cause your brain to move around inside your skull. Since concussions do not typically damage the hard protective barrier surrounding your brain, it can be difficult for doctors to pick up on subtle cellular changes with standard imaging equipment such as an MRI or CT scan.

Possible Long-Term Effects of a Concussion

Most people are aware of the short-term effects of a concussion, such as blurry vision, light sensitivity, migraine headaches, and balance problems. Fewer people understand that even what appears to be a mild concussion can cause the following lasting effects:

• Cognitive impairment, including memory and concentration issues
• New psychiatric disorders, such as anxiety, depression, or PTSD
• Personality changes, which can include irritability and aggression
• Severe sensitivity to sound and light
• Sleeping difficulties

The sooner you seek treatment after a concussion, the less likely it is that your symptoms will linger for months or years.

Vestibular Rehabilitation for Concussion Management

Your vestibular system, which includes your inner ear, brain, and vestibular nerves, can sustain serious damage in a concussion. Physical Therapy by Phoenix offers concussion management in Wichita KS with the primary goal of correcting the imbalance in your vestibular system. Please contact us to learn more about how physical therapy can speed up your head injury recovery time.