Concussion Info

WHAT IS A CONCUSSION?

A blow to the head or sudden jerky motion of the neck, as in a “whiplash” type injury (head does not need to hit something or be hit); can disrupt normal function of the brain. This type of brain injury is called a Concussion or Mild Traumatic Brain Injury (mTBI). Concussions are not life-threatening and in most cases, there are no lasting effects from injury to the brain. Eight out of ten patients with a mild head injury show some signs of the syndrome during the first 3 months after the accident. However, 15% of patients with mild head injury continue to experience symptoms of PCS 1 year after the injury.

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Informative Video

SUSTAINING A CONCUSSION

YOU CAN STILL SUSTAIN A CONCUSSION OR mTBI WITHOUT LOSING CONSCIOUSNESS!

The brain is made up of millions of long, thin nerve fibers. Some of these fibers can stretch, snap, or break as a consequence of a head injury. Like any other part of the body, the brain also has blood vessels that can tear and bleed. This happens soon after the injury, it often stops on its own and heals like any cut will. Moreover, due to the microscopic size of these nerve fibers, modern technology has yet to visualize them. Therefore, CT/MRI scans of the brain of a patient with PCS are typically normal. Snapped nerves and broken blood vessels are the cause of symptoms after a head injury.

WHAT ARE THE SIGNS OF CONCUSSION?

Dizziness, Drowsiness, Nausea/vomiting, Blurred or Double Vision, Loss of balance, Irritability and Anger, Anxiety, Depression, Insomnia, Fatigue, Short-term Memory Loss, Attention and Concentration Problems, Planning and Organizing Difficulties, Decision Making and Problem Solving, Disorientation, Confusion, Ringing in Ears, Change in Behavior (impulsive), Change in Personality

WHAT IS THE COURSE OF RECOVERY?

The recovery process depends on several factors: 1) age (youth athletes take longer to recover from concussion). 2) severity of symptoms. 3) mental and physical health before the head trauma. 4) any prior head injuries (the accumulative effects of brain injury influences the course of recovery). 5) alcohol or drug use (slows & prevents recovery). The most rapid recovery typically happens the first 1-3 months after head trauma and most patients will be back to normal after a few days or weeks. If symptoms get worse or new symptoms develop after that time, than this is a sign to consult with a Clinical Neuropsychologist, a doctor specialized in diagnosing and treating concussions or mTBI.

WHAT IS CTE?

Chronic Traumatic Encephalopathy (CTE) is a progressive degenerative disease of the brain found in people with a history of repetitive brain trauma, including concussion. CTE has been known to affect boxers since the 1920’s (when it was termed punch drunk syndrome or dementia pugilistica). However, in recent years the disease has been found in other athletes, including football and hockey players, as well as in military veterans

WHAT IS NEUROPSYCHOLOGICAL TESTING?

Neuropsychological testing has been used over 30 years in the assessment of cognitive and emotional functioning after concussion or mild traumatic brain injury ( mTBI ) . Neuropsychological tests are objective measures & designed to examine cognitive skills and abilities such as intelligence, problem solving, memory, concentration, impulse control, and reaction time, to name a few. Coastal Neuropsychology Specialists specializes in comprehensive Neuropsychological evaluation to help you or your child by providing individualized treatment plan to improve quality of life.

ALARMING STATISTICS ABOUT SPORTS-RELATED CONCUSSIONS

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In organized high school sports, concussions occur more often in competitive sports, with football accounting for more than 60% of concussions

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High school football accounts for 47% of all reported sports concussions, with 33% of concussions occuring during practice

The Center for Disease Control (CDC)

Reports show the amount of reported concussions has doubled in the last 10 years. The American Academy of Pediatrics has reported that emergency room visits for concussions in kids ages 8 to 13 years old has doubled, and concussions have risen 200 percent among teens ages 14 to 19 in the last decade!

Rates of Sport Concussion

Football

47%

Girl's Soccer

36%

Boy's Ice Hockey

27%

Boy's Soccer

22%

Girl's Basketball

21%

Wrestling

18%

If you or a loved one has suffered a head trauma Call Us at 949-481-8414. We specialize in concussion treatment.

We specialize in the consultation and treatment of adults (18 yrs and older) with neurological issues.

Why Choose CNS?

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GETTING THE RIGHT ANSWERS

Successful treatment starts with an accurate diagnosis.
Dr. Kalinian takes the time to listen, evaluate and come to the appropriate and personalized treatment for you.

EXPERIENCE YOU CAN TRUST

Dr. Kalinian has the experience and trust of her patients.
Her vast knowledge, deep curiosity, patience and eagerness to tackle anyone’s case puts her above the rest.

We Serve All of Orange County including

San Juan Capistrano, Dana Point, Laguna Beach, San Clemente, Aliso Viejo, Laguna Hills, Laguna Niguel, Ladera Ranch, Coto de Caza, Lake Forest, Costa Mesa, Irvine and beyond.