The main factor that determines concussion treatment is an accurate diagnosis. If you want to get the right help for your head injury, your doctor will conduct various tests to determine the cause and severity of your San Diego concussion symptoms. The next step will involve developing an appropriate treatment approach to deliver desired clinical outcomes.
What are the signs and symptoms of a concussion?
It would be best to inform your doctor about any symptoms you are experiencing to help him diagnose your concussion correctly. A physical evaluation of your head and brain will help your doctor determine the area and severity of the concern. The following are the typical signs and symptoms of a concussion:
- Headache
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Difficulty balancing
- Blurred vision
- Confusion
- Ringing in the ears
- Amnesia
- Double vision
- Fatigue
- Mood changes
- Anxiety
- Unconsciousness
- Sensitivity to light
What is a concussion?
A concussion is a popular condition that occurs after a traumatic head injury. The main causes of concussions include a bump, blow, or jolt to the head. A concussion is altered brain function after a head injury. Your doctor will determine the cause and severity of your concussion to recommend an effective treatment approach to optimal brain capacity.
How do I know if I have a concussion?
Recognizing concussions in time prevents the occurrences of adversities that may cause irreversible brain damage. Your doctor will provide early treatment to your concerns, limiting them from progressing into complex problems hindering your well-being. Most concussion patients diagnose the condition upon loss of consciousness. However, visiting your doctor is critical even after a knock to your head that you think is not serious.
What is concussion testing?
A concussion test evaluates your brain structure and function after a head injury. Collaborating with your primary care provider to ensure optimal medical assistance would be wise. Your primary care provider may have details about your brain structure and function, which he would compare with your results after injury and make appropriate conclusions.
Your doctor will develop a concussion test involving questionnaires and a symptom checklist. These tests provide crucial information about your memory, concentration, wakefulness, balance, coordination, and problem-solving to provide accurate conclusions about your intelligence.
What are some examples of concussion tests?
Your doctor will conduct concussion tests involving specific scoring systems to evaluate your brain function. The following are some of the most popular concussion tests:
- SAC test: This is the standardized assessment test for a concussion which determines your mental status immediately after injury.
- SCAT test: This sports concussion assessment tool combines SAC and a neck evaluation to determine balance.
- MACE: Military Acute Concussion Evaluation to determine information about the traumatic event.
Your healthcare practitioner may also measure your balance and ask specific questions regarding concussion characteristics to make the most detailed conclusion.
Your neurology team may also order imaging tests, including MRI or CT scans, to detect bruising or bleeding in your brain. You may need multiple diagnostic tests to confirm an accurate diagnosis. Contact MindSet to receive the right findings about your concussion and begin an appropriate recovery plan to restore your mental wellness.
