Yes, concussions can affect executive functioning, which includes skills such as planning, organizing, problem-solving, and decision-making. Difficulties in these areas may be experienced temporarily and can impact daily activities and work performance.
Recovery from a traumatic brain injury (TBI) largely depends on the severity of the injury, the person’s overall health, and the quality of treatment received. While full or near-full recovery is expected in mild cases, such as concussions, severe TBIs can result in lasting physical, cognitive, and emotional changes. The recovery process includes initial medical stabilization followed by rehabilitation to regain as much function as possible. Despite potential long-term disabilities in severe cases, improvements can continue over years, albeit at a slower pace. Ongoing research into neuroplasticity and neurorehabilitation is expanding potential recovery possibilities. Always consult with a healthcare professional for the most current TBI recovery information.
Yes, certain sports do carry a higher risk of concussions due to their physical nature. These include American football, hockey, rugby, soccer, and basketball. Sports that involve potential collisions or falls, such as cycling, skiing, and horseback riding, also pose a higher risk. However, it’s important to note that a concussion can occur in any sport, and appropriate safety measures should always be taken.
Repeated concussions can potentially lead to a condition called chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE), which is associated with long-term neurological problems like memory loss, confusion, personality changes, and problems with speech and gait. It’s also linked to an increased risk of other neurological disorders, like Parkinson’s disease. That said, most single concussions do not cause permanent brain damage if properly managed and enough recovery time is allowed before returning to high-risk activities.
Yes, concussions can impact academic performance in students. Difficulty with concentration, memory, and cognitive processing may affect learning abilities temporarily. It is important to communicate with teachers and provide necessary accommodations during the recovery period.
Concussions are typically diagnosed by healthcare professionals through a physical examination and an assessment of the individual’s symptoms. This might include neurological tests that evaluate memory, concentration, coordination, and balance. The Glasgow Coma Scale may be used to evaluate consciousness. If there’s a suspicion of serious brain injury, imaging tests like a CT scan or MRI may be performed to rule out structural injuries, such as fractures or bleeds.
Yes, individuals with concussions may experience increased sensitivity to screens or digital devices due to the visual stimulation. Taking breaks, adjusting screen brightness, and using blue light filters may help alleviate discomfort.
It depends, as the effects of a TBI can vary greatly from person to person. Some people may experience only minor symptoms that clear up within a few weeks, while others may experience long-term or permanent impairments. There is no one way to “recover” from a TBI, but with appropriate treatment and support, many people can improve their quality of life. A psychologist can help you treat the symptoms of TBI and develop coping strategies. If you think you or someone you know may have a TBI, it is important to seek medical attention as soon as possible.
On arrival, one of our expert staff members will help assess your health and history. We work together with you to determine the best treatment schedule.
Indeed, a concussion can impact mental health. After a concussion, some individuals experience mood changes, anxiety, depression, irritability, or even personality changes. These alterations could result from the physical trauma to the brain, the range of symptoms experienced, or the necessary changes and adaptations during the recovery period. They could be temporary or more long-lasting. If an individual experiences such mental health changes following a concussion, it’s important to seek help from a healthcare provider. Incorporating mental health support as part of the recovery process is crucial to comprehensive concussion management. Our Edmonton clinic offers the vast support and assistance needed to support you or your loved one.
Yes, concussions can occur in various non-athletic settings such as motor vehicle accidents, falls, workplace incidents, or recreational activities.
