Second Syndrome and Second Impact Syndrome
Second Syndrome:
After a head trauma, no matter how minimal or severe patients may have an increase in symptoms. Symptoms are unique to each patient but may include; headaches, dizziness, change in taste, change in sleep habits, quicker to anger or agitation and so on. Some patients claim to have no symptoms or discomfort immediately after their head trauma. They can still suffer from second syndrome.
Why does second syndrome occur?
The part of the neuron that sends a signal is not functioning properly. Leading to decreased brain function.
When does second syndrome occur?
The answer to that is unsure. It is different timing for each patients but usually symptoms increase within the first two years.
Second Impact Syndrome:
Occurs when the brain swells rapidly, and catastrophically, after a person suffers a second concussion before symptoms from an earlier one have subsided. This second blow may occur minutes, days, or weeks..... after an initial concussion, and even the mildest grade of concussion can lead to SIS.
Why do people suffer from second impact syndrome?
In patients who sustain a second concussion when the first ones has not healed, the brain loses its ability to auto regulate intracranial and cerebral perfusion pressure. This may lead to cerebral edema, severe swelling of the brain, and possible brain herniation.
TRUE & FALSE
Resting the brain heals the brain
FALSE. The best way for the brain to heal is activation. As it is TRUE that rest and staying away from bright lights is best right after a brain injury. Studies have shown that giving input and activation into the brain improves the brain and recovery.
The Brain Can Heal
True. The brain has the ability to heal with proper activation. Best results happen with patients who stick to their specified brain activation plans and, need be, lifestyle changes. We see a difference in all our patients that keep their appointments.
My brain injury happened years ago there is no recovering
FALSE. While it is true that quicker results and recovery happen as soon after the injury as possible, changes can still made later on.
My Child is too young
FALSE. No one is too young or too old for brain injury to occur OR to receive treatment for a brain injury. The younger the better to make sure that your kiddo has the best chances to recovery before symptoms become more symptomatic. Studies have shown the younger the better neuroplasticity and recovery.
I don't /my kids don't play sports... We cannot get a concussion
FALSE. As TBI and concussions are commonly spoken about in the world of sports it does not mean that is the only way to get one. We see several auto concussions, we have seen slip and/or falls, kids who have hit their head on hard surfaces including floors and cabinets. Simply just playing around common accidents such as falling off the bed or bonking heads can result in mild to sever concussions.
Brain injuries are common for all ages
TRUE. Any age is susceptible to brain injuries. In fact most TBI are likely to occur in Children aged 0 to 4 years, older adolescents aged 15 to 19 years, and adults aged 65 years and older.
Brain Injuries Occur Daily
TRUE. Every day 153 people die in the United States due to Traumatic Brain Injury. Most TBI that occur are mild and are called concussions. In 2012, an estimated 329,290 children (age 0-19) were treated in U.S. for concussion or TBI.