What concussion is
Concussion is a mild traumatic brain injury caused by a blow or jolt to the head, resulting in temporary disruption of brain function. Symptoms may include headache, dizziness, difficulty concentrating, memory problems, sensitivity to light or noise, and sleep disturbance. Loss of consciousness occurs in less than 10% of concussions and its absence does not exclude concussion.
Most concussion symptoms resolve within 2 to 4 weeks with appropriate rest and gradual return to activity. When symptoms persist beyond 4 weeks, the condition is classified as post-concussion syndrome and warrants specialist evaluation to identify contributing factors and guide recovery.
- Headache, dizziness, difficulty concentrating after head impact
- Sensitivity to light or noise, sleep disturbance
- Loss of consciousness occurs in less than 10% of cases
- Symptoms persisting beyond 4 weeks = post-concussion syndrome
Related: Neurologist Kathmandu → · Dr. Jitendra Knowledge Hub → · ICHD-3 Topic →
Post-concussion syndrome evaluation
Post-concussion syndrome requires evaluation to distinguish persistent concussion symptoms from other conditions that may mimic or coexist with concussion. Migraine triggered by the injury, vestibular dysfunction, cervicogenic headache, anxiety, depression and sleep disturbance can all contribute to ongoing symptoms. A structured approach identifies modifiable contributors.
Evaluation includes detailed history of the injury mechanism, symptom timeline, neurological examination, cognitive screening, and targeted investigations when indicated. Management is individualised, addressing each contributing factor with appropriate intervention — vestibular rehabilitation, headache management, cognitive strategies, sleep optimisation and graded return to activity.
- Distinguish concussion symptoms from migraine, vestibular and cervical contributors
- Neurological examination and cognitive screening
- Targeted investigations when clinically indicated
- Individualised management addressing each contributing factor