Head injuries are root cause of cluster of symptoms

Post-concussion syndrome is a description given to a cluster of physical and cognitive symptoms that sometimes occur after a minor head injury.

In post-concussion syndrome symptoms persist longer than would be expected from the nature of the injury.

They can include nausea, headaches, dizziness, impaired concentration, memory problems, extreme tiredness, intolerance to light and noise, and can lead to anxiety and depression.

Though there is no treatment for PCS, symptoms can be treated; medications and physical and behavioural therapy may be used, and individuals can be educated about symptoms and provided with the expectation of recovery.

Some experts believe postconcussion symptoms are caused by structural damage to the brain or disruption of neurotransmitter systems, resulting from the impact which caused the concussion.

Others believe that PCS symptoms are related to common psychological factors.

In most cases the symptoms of post-concussion syndrome will resolve themselves within two weeks.

However, in some cases they may persist much longer.

The majority of symptoms are largely gone in about half of people with concussion one month after the injury, and about two thirds of people with minor head trauma are nearly symptom-free within three months.

In approximately 15% of people, symptoms may persist for years or be permanent.

If symptoms are not resolved by a year, they are likely to be permanent, though improvements may occur after even two or three years.

Canadian ice hockey player Scott Stevens, a Hall of Fame defenceman, was concussed when hit in the head by a slap shot during the 2003 play-offs.

Stevens played through the symptoms en route to winning the Stanley Cup with the New Jersey Devils that spring, but had to retire in January 2004 due to PCS.