Concussion

Concussion services offered in Katy, TX

Even a minor concussion can be serious. Getting proper and prompt medical attention is the best way to avoid serious complications. Sadia Yasser, MD, and the team at Advanced Neurology of Katy have extensive experience diagnosing and treating concussions, helping patients in Katy, Texas, get the care they need for optimal outcomes. To learn more, call the office or request a consultation online.

What is a concussion?

A concussion is a brain injury caused by an impact. It can occur directly, such as hitting your head during a fall or being struck by a falling object, or indirectly, as a result of a whiplash-like injury that causes the head to snap forward and backward violently.

Indirect impact injuries often go untreated until symptoms occur because most people don’t realize their brain can be injured without being hit directly on the head. Concussions can range from mild to severe, and in some cases, it can take days for symptoms to appear. Delayed treatment of severe concussions can result in slow internal bleeding, brain swelling, and death.

What are the symptoms of a concussion?

Concussions cause many different symptoms, which, in some cases, can be subtle. Symptoms may include:

headache or neck pain
confusion or “brain fog”
temporary loss of consciousness when the accident occurs
no memory of the accident that caused the injury
ringing or other persistent noises in the ears
nausea or vomiting
dizziness or vertigo
extreme fatigue and sleepiness that may develop rapidly
delayed responses to questions
slurred speech or difficulty communicating
changes in mood or personality
irritability
problems with taste or smell
sleep problems

Because many of these symptoms can be very subtle, it’s essential to visit Advanced Neurology of Katy to be evaluated after any injury that can cause a concussion, even seemingly mild events.

How are concussions diagnosed and treated?

At Advanced Neurology of Katy, diagnosis begins with a review of any symptoms and a careful retelling of the accident or event that caused the injury, as well as a physical exam with cognitive and neurological evaluations to assess reflexes, verbal and sensory responses, and other signs. Diagnostic imaging, such as an MRI, X-ray, or CT scan, may also be performed to look for signs of physical injury.

For minor concussions, patients will need to have complete mental rest and be closely monitored for worsening symptoms. More severe concussions require hospitalization and, in some cases, surgery to repair damaged areas and relieve pressure inside the skull.

To learn more, schedule a consultation by calling Advanced Neurology of Katy or reaching out online.