MACE Symptom Recognition & Monitoring

Question 1

What are the four categories of concussion symptoms?

Accepted Answer

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

Answer

Only headache

Answer

Only memory loss

Answer

Only dizziness and nausea

Question 2

What is the most commonly reported symptom of concussion?

Accepted Answer

Headache

Answer

Loss of consciousness

Answer

Seizures

Answer

Paralysis

Question 3

What symptom tracking tools are used to monitor concussion recovery?

Accepted Answer

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

Answer

Only verbal questioning

Answer

No standardized tools exist

Answer

Only brain imaging

Question 4

How can concussion symptoms be differentiated from combat stress reactions?

Accepted Answer

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

Answer

They cannot be differentiated

Answer

Only brain imaging can distinguish them

Answer

Combat stress always involves loss of consciousness

Question 5

What is the normal recovery timeline for concussion?

Accepted 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

Answer

24 hours

Answer

Exactly 30 days for everyone

Answer

Recovery from concussion takes at least 1 year

Question 6

What cognitive symptoms should be monitored after concussion?

Accepted Answer

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

Answer

Only spelling errors

Answer

Only mathematical ability

Answer

Cognitive symptoms do not occur with concussion