Concussion Specialist
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Affinity Neurocare
Nnamdi C. Dike, DO
Neurologist & Neurologist located in Carrollton, TX & Frisco, TX
Even when it seems like your head injury is mild, signs of a concussion, such as a headache and feeling confused, should always be taken seriously and examined by a neurologist. Nnamdi Dike, DO, at Affinity Neurocare has extensive experience evaluating concussions, performing diagnostic tests to be sure you don’t have bleeding or a skull fracture, and managing your recovery so you can get back to your activities as soon as it’s safe. If you suffered a head injury, schedule an appointment online or call the office in Frisco, Texas.
Concussion Q & A
What should I know about concussions?
A concussion is a mild traumatic brain injury that affects the brain’s ability to function. When you suffer a blow to your head, your brain bounces against the skull. As a result, brain cells are damaged, nerve communication is disrupted, blood vessels may tear, and bruising in the brain may occur.
You’re not likely to develop long-lasting brain damage after one concussion. However, permanent brain damage can occur when you have another concussion shortly after the first one, or you suffer multiple concussions.
Here’s the most important thing to know about a concussion: It should always receive prompt medical care at Affinity Neurocare to determine if you suffered a skull fracture or bleeding.
What symptoms develop following a concussion?
After you suffer a head injury, your symptoms could appear right away, or you may not experience them for a few hours or days. No matter when your symptoms begin, the physical and cognitive effects can last for weeks.
Some patients find that their symptoms become chronic, a condition called post-concussion syndrome. For about 15% of concussion patients, headaches, dizziness, and other concussion symptoms continue a year or more after the initial injury.
Although a concussion may knock you out, about 90% of patients don’t lose consciousness. The three key symptoms of concussion are:
- Headache
- Memory loss
- Confusion
In addition to those symptoms, you may also experience one or more of the following:
- Dizziness
- Nausea
- Impaired balance
- Blurry vision
- Slurred speech
- Feeling dazed
You may also develop insomnia, a sensitivity to light, or feel irritable or depressed.
How is a concussion treated?
Getting plenty of rest is the best treatment for a concussion. It’s important to give your brain time to heal by limiting stimulation. This means avoiding environmental stimulation, such as bright lights and loud sounds, as well as minimizing your physical activity. Dr. Dike may also recommend taking time off from school or work to avoid cognitive activity.
Your post-concussion rehabilitation can start when Dr. Dike clears you to return to light activities. During your rehabilitation, you’ll have a plan for gradually returning to your normal activities.
If you sustain a concussion, call Affinity Neurocare or schedule an appointment using the online booking tool.
