32, 33, 34, 35, 36 and 37 Although more expensive and selleck products timely to administer, the advantages of computerized testing include the ability to assess additional neuropsychological domains (such as processing speed and visual memory), the ability to administer baseline testing to large groups of athletes in a short period of time, and the multiple forms used within the testing
paradigm to reduce the practice effects. It should also be noted there are many traditional (paper and pencil based) neuropsychological tests available. While these tests collectively take longer to administer, they may be administered without the need for computers or Internet, but do require highly trained personnel. Computerized test manufacturers often advocate the collection of baseline testing; however, recent scientific evidence and consensus recommendations have questioned the need for this ABT-737 mouse time consuming and costly process.8, 38 and 39 Each organization should carefully consider the need for
large scale baseline testing based on available resources. The majority of athletic concussions typically resolve in 5–7 days for collegiate athletes,15 and 40 but on average take longer for high school athletes.41 It is important to note these averages represent aggregate data based primarily on college American football players, and may not represent the full recovery spectrum one might see with athletes of differing ages and sports. Regardless, it is important to evaluate the athlete regularly throughout the course of recovery with graded symptom checklists and objective measures of postural stability and cognition. One in 10 concussions Levetiracetam take longer to resolve, and clinicians must recognize that in some cases, it may take weeks or months—or sometimes longer—for symptoms to resolve and for athletes to begin feeling better. It is critical that coaches ensure athletes are
fully recovered to protect them from adverse and potentially catastrophic outcomes like second impact syndrome. Symptoms that can be commonly prolonged for concussed athletes include headaches, dizziness, and mood disturbances. Headaches are not all created equally, and represent a complex range of conditions that each requires individualized attention and care. They can range from being so severe that the athlete has a difficult time getting out of bed, to mild tightness and pressure around the head. Bright lights and loud noises may make headaches worse, so coaches should shield players from noisy game environments or night games with bright lights if the athletes have these symptoms. Headaches related to concussion may be migraine-like in nature, a tension-type headache, or secondary to cervical spine-related pain or visual disturbances.