Symptom Recognition & Monitoring Flashcards

What are the four categories of concussion symptoms?

Answer: Physical (headache, dizziness), cognitive (confusion, memory problems), emotional (irritability, anxiety), and sleep-related (insomnia, drowsiness)

Concussion symptoms span four domains: physical (headache, nausea, balance problems, light/noise sensitivity), cognitive (confusion, slowed thinking, poor concentration), emotional (irritability, sadness, anxiety), and sleep (too much/too little).

What is the most commonly reported symptom of concussion?

Answer: Headache

Headache is reported in approximately 90% of concussions, making it the most common symptom. Loss of consciousness occurs in less than 10% of concussions, contrary to popular belief.

What symptom tracking tools are used to monitor concussion recovery?

Answer: Standardized symptom checklists (like the RPQ, NSI, or PCSS) that rate symptom severity on numeric scales over time

Validated symptom checklists (Neurobehavioral Symptom Inventory, Rivermead Post-Concussion Symptoms Questionnaire, Post-Concussion Symptom Scale) quantify symptom severity and track changes over time to guide clinical decisions.

How can concussion symptoms be differentiated from combat stress reactions?

Answer: Through timing relative to injury, specific cognitive deficits on MACE, neurological findings, and the pattern of symptom onset and resolution

Concussion symptoms are temporally linked to an injury event and include specific cognitive deficits. Combat stress reactions are related to psychological stressors and may not involve cognitive impairment on testing, though significant overlap exists.

What is the normal recovery timeline for concussion?

Answer: Most service members recover within 7-14 days, though some may take several weeks; symptoms persisting beyond 3 months may indicate post-concussion syndrome

The majority of concussions resolve within 1-2 weeks with proper management. However, approximately 10-20% of individuals experience prolonged symptoms. Recovery timelines vary based on injury severity, history, and individual factors.

What cognitive symptoms should be monitored after concussion?

Answer: Slowed processing speed, difficulty concentrating, memory problems, confusion, and difficulty finding words

Concussion commonly impairs processing speed, attention/concentration, working memory, executive function, and verbal fluency. These deficits are detected by the MACE and affect the service member's ability to perform duty tasks.