Originally Posted by Mark in Idaho

All concussions cause permanent damage. Most of those symptoms will not show up unless the subject is under stress. Most people are dead wrong, including most doctors. The research about subconcussive impacts was done over 20 years ago but the medical community is still not accepting these truths. The permanent damage research was done in the 1970's and repeated in the 1990's. It is still not accepted.

The concept of full recovery is a misnomer. It currently means the subject has recovered to a condition where all ADL's (Activities of Daily Living) can be done. This is a short sighted term. The ADL's made be doable but the stress load can impact ADL's and other situations. Test taking is not an ADL. Test taking can be impacted by concussions, especially if the subject is under stress.

Just because the subject appears recovered and may even think they have recovered 100%, the lasting damage will eventually become symptomatic.

There is nothing that can be done to change this long term situation. But, you can do things to minimize the symptoms that return. Avoiding further impacts of any intensity is the most important. The concussed and sub-concussed brain is far more sensitive to further injury.

Your intellectual potential is not something to worry about. You should be more focused on learning to live a low stress life with good nutrition. Intellectual performance may be hampered in some situations but it is not difficult to avoid those situations.

The cultural imperative to go at max speed to achieve everything possible is false. There are always trade offs, whether one has a concussion history or not. By learning to live a stress free and balanced life, you intellectual potential can still be achieved.

btw, I disregard the Class 1,2,3,4,5 definition of concussions. There is not a direct relationship between initial concussion intensity and long term symptoms. There are too many variables. The attempt to grade concussions is for the benefit of the statisticians, not the patient.

Skiing is not a dangerous sport regarding concussions. Many skiers wear helmets today. I believe the biggest risk is due to irresponsible behaviors. I wear a helmet to protect my head from other skiers and boarders.

If you practice safe skiing, you should be able to minimize the risk. Try not to stop in congested areas. Use good equipment. Be aware of the reckless skiers and boarders. Don't keep skiing when you are tired. Most injuries happen in the latter half of the day. I know because I was a National Ski Patrol. Enjoy skiing. It is a fabulous sport.

CandyCanes, My biggest concern is for you to learn to control you anxiety. Hypochondria is an anxiety disorder. If you continue to worry and it effects your life, you need professional help. Seek it and use it. Living in fear is not living. It is existing. You may have some tendencies for anxiety as a symptom of your concussion. A professional therapist who has experience with PCS will be a great find.

Seek some good help and learn to enjoy life. You will do fine if you get the help you need.

And, when you see your culture 'head slapping,' speak up and try to stop this damaging behavior.

My best to you.