Postconcussive Syndrome

Postconcussive syndrome occurs after a blow to the head or body, a fall, or another injury that jars or shakes the brain inside the skull. Common symptoms are changes in the ability to concentrate, think, remember, or solve problems.

Symptoms, which may include headaches, personality changes, and dizziness, may be related to stress from the events surrounding the accident that caused the injury. It may take several weeks to many months for these symptoms to go away on their own. But these may also be signs of a more serious injury and should be discussed with a doctor.

Rest is the best treatment for postconcussive syndrome.

Last Revised: November 29, 2011

Author: Healthwise Staff

Medical Review: Anne C. Poinier, MD - Internal Medicine & William H. Blahd, Jr., MD, FACEP - Emergency Medicine

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