A concussion can be a confusing and scary experience. With proper medical attention, most recover quickly, but around 20% of patients need extra support to fully heal. Knowing when to seek follow-up care is essential for a full recovery.
Neurologists are experts in concussions and seeing one early can make a significant difference in recovery time. Your brain is the most important asset you have and keeping it safe and healthy is key to your overall well-being. If you have any concerns about your recovery, call Endeavor Health at (847) 570-2570 to connect with a doctor today.
The importance of timely care
Seeking care immediately after a concussion can have a major impact on your recovery. Ideally, you should aim to see a physician within one to two weeks of the injury. Neurologists and physicians can help identify issues like neck strain or balance problems that may be contributing to your symptoms. For example, if the injury involves whiplash, they may suggest applying a heating pad, performing targeted home exercises or exploring physical therapy or medication if symptoms continue.
Recognizing concerning symptoms
Concussions can affect people in different ways and it's important to know when certain signs might mean a longer healing process. You should seek a medical expert’s opinion If you’re experiencing signals like intense dizziness, vision problems or trouble with balance.
People with pre-existing conditions like migraines, ADHD, anxiety or depression may be more likely to experience prolonged symptoms and should be evaluated by a neurologist as soon as possible. Many people mistakenly believe that neurologic care is only for severe or long-lasting concussion issues, but getting an early consultation can be very helpful with recovery.
What to expect during a neurological visit
During your follow-up visit, your neurologist will gather a detailed history of your injury, focusing on a minute-by-minute timeline of events. Understanding exactly what happened helps them create an accurate recovery plan tailored to your needs. This history includes questions about symptom changes and factors that make them better or worse.
For athletes, questions may center on the impact of the injury. For others, discussions might focus on how symptoms affect daily life and responsibilities. A physical exam will typically include tests of your balance and memory to track your progress and recovery.
Your neurologist will then discuss their findings and provide a diagnosis, which could range from a concussion to neck strain, migraine or dehydration. If a concussion is diagnosed, they will outline the expected recovery timeline and recommend any necessary accommodations for returning to daily activities. Treatment plans often involve physical therapy or medication and some clinics offer exercise testing to guide your return to full activity levels.
Get an expert’s opinion
Even if you’re feeling better after a concussion, there's no downside to seeing a neurologist. They can help ensure that all symptoms have truly resolved and can spot any subtle issues that you might not have noticed.
Certain people should always consult a neurologist after a concussion. A general guideline is to seek a specialist if you've had three or more concussions. Athletes who have experienced multiple concussions, especially if they are questioning whether it's safe to continue playing their sport, will find the expertise of a sports neurologist invaluable.
Your partners in concussion recovery
At Endeavor Health, our neurologists work with a multidisciplinary team, including physical therapists to support your return to normal functioning. Our team of highly skilled professionals will customize your treatment plan to help you best navigate your recovery journey. Visit us online or call (847) 570-2570 to schedule a consultation and discuss your brain health today.
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