[mrsmith]

I have had Post Concussion Syndrome for about five months. I was out testing water samples, fainted, and hit my head on a few rocks. I was later diagnosed with PCS. My symtoms have been improving a lot, and I thought I was pretty much better. I recently started resuming my studies, and my symptoms have returned. I also had a hair appointment where they pretty aggressively shampooed my hair. I was wondering if this could have somehow aggravated by symptoms.

Thanks.

[Mark in Idaho]

mrsmith,

Welcome to NeuroTalk.

Resuming your studies increases the stress load on your brain. This can cause a return of symptoms. You should try to return to studies at a slower measured pace.

The shampoo experience can have two problems. The shaking of the head and neck can be stressful on the brain. You need to communicate a need for a more gentle shampoo. The neck, especially the upper neck, can be traumatized by the shampoo bowl. The way the neck is supported by the bowl can cause the blood flow to be impeded, it can cause a strain on the ligaments that connect the C-1 (atlas) to the occiput (base of the skull). There is a condition known as shampoo sink embolism that is caused by the trauma to the vertebral artery loosening arterial plaques. I doubt this is a problem for you but it does demonstrate how a shampoo sink can be traumatic.

There is no way to tell what caused you return of symptoms. It could be both.

Please tell us more about the symptoms that have returned. There are many here who have been through this same experience.

[mrsmith]

Alright, thanks a lot. I was also wondering if PCS has a direct effect on IQ? As I was just accepted into an engineering school, and I am worried about my intelligence being affected by this condition.

[Mark in Idaho]

PCS does usually not effect IQ but it can cause problems with successful memorization of facts and the ability to process multi-step formulas.

You would be wise to get an assessment of your current functions and dysfunctions. An educational psychologist may be helpful. A NeuroPsychological Assessment is intense and expensive and probably far more than you need.

Until you tell us about your symptoms, there is not much else we can offer. Read the thread Vitamins. It suggests how to take care of your brain.