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

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).

Question 2

What is the most commonly reported symptom of concussion?

Accepted Answer

Headache

Answer

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.

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

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.

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

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.

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

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.

MACE - Military Acute Concussion Evaluation Practice Test

MACE - Military Acute Concussion Evaluation Practice Test

MACE Symptom Recognition & Monitoring