Can concussion be diagnosed based on symptoms alone?

Top Doctors recently spoke with Dr Ioannis Mavroudis, a highly respected and experienced consultant neurologist, to quiz him in detail about whether or not concussion can be diagnosed purely on symptoms alone. He also outlines here the main causes of a concussion, and reviews the tests and techniques that are commonly used nowadays when diagnosing either concussion or post-concussion syndrome.

Can concussion be diagnosed based on symptoms alone?

A concussion is diagnosed only on the basis of the symptoms that the patient reports. It certainly can be diagnosed based on the symptoms alone. However, certain diagnostic tests may be supportive of the diagnosis, and can help in the management of post-concussion syndrome.

Are there self-tests available to diagnose concussion?

There are online diagnostic tests that can be performed by the patient. However, a post-injury test should always be carried out by a trained medical professional.

What is the role of virtual reality in the diagnosis and management of a concussion and post-concussion syndrome?

The use of virtual reality and augmented reality technology continues to grow in the areas of clinical assessment and rehabilitation. Virtual reality can provide functional neuropsychological assessment tools that can help in the diagnosis of a concussion and post-concussion symptoms. It can also assist with the better management of the symptoms. The most common techniques include the moving room protocol, or interactive games.

What other tests and techniques can be used in the diagnosis of concussion and post-concussion syndrome?

Some of the most commonly used technologies include the eye-tracking technology, where the examiner, using certain equipment, will obtain data from the eye movements of the patient, and portable EEG devices, which can help us to better understand the brain function of the patient after a traumatic brain injury.

What are the main causes of a concussion?

The most common cause of mild traumatic brain injuries is sport, and more specifically, contact sports, such as rugby, football, American football, boxing, and wrestling. Road traffic accidents and falls are also common causes.

If you would like to find out more information about concussion and post-concussion syndrome, you can book a consultation with Dr Ioannis Mavroudis today by visiting his Top Doctors profile.