Concussions

If you experience headaches, memory problems, or other unusual symptoms after hitting your head, they may be warning signs of a concussion. At Palm Beach Pain Institute, diagnostic evaluations are available for adults and adolescents who experience concussion symptoms. Board-certified pain management specialist Marcie Merson, MD, creates treatment plans featuring rest to prevent further brain injury and medications to ease headache pain. Call the office in Delray Beach, Florida, to schedule a consultation for symptoms of concussions. You can also request an appointment online at any time. 

What are concussions?

A concussion is a type of mild traumatic brain injury (TBI) that can develop after a blow or bump to the head, such as during a fall where your head hits the ground.

You may also experience a concussion from the sudden back-and-forth movement of your head that forces your brain to move around inside your skull. For instance, a rear end collision in a car can result in a concussion.

Concussions are typically not life-threatening but require medical attention to ensure there’s no lasting damage. Palm Beach Pain Institute provides concussion care for adults and adolescents.

Dr. Merson customizes a care plan to minimize damage in your brain structures so that you can heal fully from a concussion.

What are the symptoms of concussions?

Symptoms of a concussion may not be noticeable right away. In the days and weeks after a fall or other incident, you might experience:

• Confusion
• Headaches
• Drowsiness
• Memory loss
• Blurry vision
• Slurred speech

You might also be more sensitive to light and sound, feel irritable, or have difficulties falling asleep or staying asleep.

If you experience a head injury and aren’t sure whether you have a concussion, it’s wise to schedule a diagnostic evaluation at Palm Beach Pain Institute.

Dr. Merson assesses your symptoms and may complete cognitive testing and other diagnostics to determine if you have a concussion.

How are concussions treated?

The initial steps of treating a concussion involve activity restriction and rest. You also need to avoid things that tax your mental energy or stimulate your brain.

Dr. Merson may recommend that you avoid watching television, reading, and using your phone or computer for up to 48 hours.

If you experience headaches, Dr. Merson can prescribe a pain reliever. She can also address any pain you have from the original trauma, such as neck or back pain after a car accident.

Dr. Merson monitors your symptoms and can let you know when it’s safe to return to work, school, sports, and other activities. She also offers tips you can follow to prevent additional concussions.

Call Palm Beach Pain Institute to schedule a diagnostic evaluation for symptoms of concussions. You can also book an appointment online at any time.