To say that the brain is the most complex organ in the human body would be an understatement. While there remains so much more to still learn about, a common injury to the brain that most people are familiar with is called concussions. But what exactly are concussions and why is it so important to address?
Risk Factors of Concussions
A concussion occurs when there is a quick and intense movement applied to your head, neck, or upper body. As a result, your brain will shift around and forcefully hit the inner walls of your skull, producing injuries to both your brain and its neuropathways. Common occurrences of concussions include events such as a car crash, acute contact sport injury, physical abuse, and falling.
Signs and Symptoms
Below is a non-exhaustive list of the most common signs and symptoms of a concussion. Note that these signs and symptoms may not be present immediately upon injury and may instead slowly develop overtime:
- Headache
- Ringing in the ears
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Fatigue
- Difficulty completing tasks
- Dizziness
- Delayed responses
- Forgetfulness
- Irritability and other personality changes
- Sensitivity to light and noise
- Sleep disturbances
Diagnosis
At Attuned Vitality, our Functional Neurologist, Dr. Funk, will conduct an extensive neurological evaluation of your brain and vestibular system. During this examination, Dr. Funk will involves thoroughly review your medical history, perform a neurological examination and cognitive evaluation.
This test includes checking your:
- Memory
- Balance
- Eye movement
- Gait (walking)
Treatment for Concussions
Following the neurological examination, Dr. Funk will create an individualized treatment plan for you based off the unique presentation of your concussion. Compared to other treatment plans offered in most neurological settings, Dr. Funk’s individualized treatment plan will be holistic in nature and focus on strengthening/rehabilitating the injured parts of your brain and vestibular system.
It is always best to see a doctor following a head injury, even if emergency care doesn’t seem required. Generally, concussions will not completely resolve on its own and the problems will persist until they are addressed.
If you have any additional questions regarding concussions, please make an appointment with Dr. Funk and he would be happy to help you. Additionally, you can learn more about what Functional Neurology here. Be sure to follow us on Facebook to stay up to date on our business.