Understanding PPCS (Persistent Post-Concussive Symptoms)

Are you struggling with long-term concussion symptoms? You may be experiencing Persistent Post-Concussive Symptoms (PPCS). 

This in-depth breakdown will help you understand PPCS, its symptoms, and how it affects your daily life.

PPCS is used to describe the persistence of concussion symptoms beyond the normal course of recovery. Instead of resolving in a few days to a few weeks, those with PPCS continue experiencing post-injury symptoms, limitations and deficits for more than 3 months, potentially extending into a multi-year battle. 

According to experts, 30% or more of people with a concussion brain injury fall into the PPCS category. Research and discussions have been steadily increasing over the years, but not fast enough. People need help regaining their freedom now.

It's important to note that PPCS is also referred to as Post-Concussion Syndrome (PCS) in some contexts.

What is PPCS?

PPCS Symptoms

PPCS can impact multiple bodily systems, leading to a diverse range of symptoms that vary significantly amongst individuals. These symptoms are generally categorized into four groups.

Many people still hold the misconception that a concussion is limited to transient, minimal effects such as "seeing stars" briefly or the inconvenience of headaches, addressed by resting in a dark room. 

However, the reality is that the effects of a concussion can be far-reaching and much more complex. Listed below are examples; individuals may experience additional, fewer or different symptoms depending on their unique circumstances.

Cognitive Symptoms:

  • Difficulty maintaining focus and paying attention

  • Inability to use pre-existing planning, organizational or multitasking skills effectively

  • Challenges with language comprehension and reading ability

  • Difficulty learning new concepts

  • Memory issues (short term, long term and/or working memory)

Physical Symptoms:

  • Extreme daily fatigue/ exhaustion

  • Heart rate variability concerns 

  • Dizziness and inability to maintain balance

  • Severely deregulated sleep (inability to fall asleep or remain asleep through the night)

  • Blood pressure changes

  • Gut issues and inflammation 

  • Various sensitivities to light and sound

Behavioural Symptoms:

  • Anxiety

  • Depression

  • Frequent and unpredictable crying episodes

  • Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)

Emotional Symptoms:

  • Anger

  • Sadness

  • Emotional dysregulation (inability to control emotions or calm self down, despite the use of tools/ strategies)

Invisible Injury

One of the biggest challenges of sustaining a concussion brain injury and living with PPCS is the invisible nature of it. Without physical signs that others perceive, it can be extremely challenging to those who have not lived this experience struggle to understand the depth of it. Others often misunderstand or dismiss the struggles faced by those living with it.

This can result in:

  • Feelings of isolation that come from no longer feeling understood the way you once did

  • Receiving frustration from others who expect you to function the same as ever 

  • Difficulty asking for what you need from others (or even knowing what to ask for)

  • Challenges in receiving appropriate support from recovery professionals at times

How PPCS Impacts Your Daily Life

PPCS can significantly affect a person's daily functioning and quality of life.

Some common challenges include:

  • Reduced cognitive abilities, affecting work performance and financial growth

  • Difficulty maintaining regular schedules due to cognitive exhaustion

  • Challenges during social interactions/strained relationships

  • Limitations in physical activities, sport and exercise

  • Emotional and psychological distress

PPCS Recovery and Care

Working through PPCS can be a long and challenging process, but it is possible to continue improving. In addition to seeking expertise for certain symptoms, learning strategies to work with—rather than against—the brain's current functioning can lead to meaningful shifts that enhance quality of life.  

Recovery requires patience, persistence, and a comprehensive treatment approach tailored to specific needs.  

For those seeking guidance from lived experience to navigate the journey forward, a complimentary, no-obligation call can provide valuable support and insights.

Return to Life Complements Your Care Team 

Navigating PPCS often involves working with a diverse team of healthcare professionals. Our services are designed to meet you exactly where you are at, complements the support provided by:  

  • Primary Care Providers: Family doctors, neurologists

  • Rehabilitation Experts: Physiotherapists, occupational therapists, chiropractors, osteopaths, Registered Massage Therapists

  • Specialists: Vestibular therapists, neuro-ophthalmologists, audiologists, optometrists, sleep specialists

  • Mental Health Professionals: Registered clinical counselors, psychologists, psychiatrists

  • Advanced Therapies: Neurofeedback and biofeedback technicians

  • Speech and Language Experts: Speech-language pathologists

While this range of expertise is invaluable, it can be hard to find a practitioner who combines clinical care with a deep understanding of the lived experience of brain injury. 

That’s where support comes in—bridging the gaps, anticipating needs, and providing personalized guidance that aligns with the recovery journey.

Note: Although not a registered clinical counselor (RCC), Chaandani Khan’s lived experience with brain injury and expertise in PPCS recovery provide a unique perspective to address challenges that may extend beyond traditional therapeutic approaches.

You’re not alone on your PPCS journey. Seek guidance today, and return to the life you want.