How Long Does a Concussion Last?
Concussion symptoms can last a few days, a few weeks, and even several years or not fully resolve. Several contributing factors concussion recovery include:
- How you were injured
- Severity of the concussion
- When you sought treatment
- Type of treatment received
- Number of previous concussions or TBI’s
- Additional medical conditions
Based on the above, a concussion or symptoms can last anywhere from a few days to a few weeks, with more severe cases reported to have symptoms last for a year or more.
Long Term Effects of Concussions
If concussion symptoms last more than three months, this condition is called post-concussion syndrome (PCS).
Symptoms of PCS include, but are not limited to:
- Headaches or migraines
- Personality changes
- Depression
- Sleep troubles
- Memory issues
- Sensitivity to light and/or sound
- Difficulty focusing
- Light-headed or dizziness
- Mood swings
Even more, there are a variety of long-term effects that can be impacting people a year or more after an injury, with the most common symptoms being a combination of physical, psychosocial and cognitive. In these people, reports of headaches, dizziness, light & noise sensitivity, depression, anxiety and coping issues tend to occur most often.
When a person suffers from PCS, it can have a significantly negative impact on their quality of life. In these cases, seeking out medical treatment is highly suggested.
There are currently no FDA-approved drugs to treat or reverse PCS. There are, however, several medications used to mask the symptoms including anti-depressants, sleep aids, narcotics, and anti-anxiety medications. All of these medications are either addictive or can actually lead to a higher risk of suicide. As a result, avoiding such treatment options and finding a safer, more effective and natural way to address PCS is crucial.
