Oriental Medicine Treatment for Other Diseases and Aftereffects
Concussion Aftereffects · Post-Concussion Syndrome · Post-Traumatic Syndrome· Post-Concussion Syndrome
Incheon Songdo Baekrokdam Korean Medicine Clinic
Functional decline of the brain that cannot be detected by tests; we resolve blood stasis with herbal medicine and restore brain function.
Do you feel a brain fog and nausea even though the test results are normal?If you have only been taking painkillers, this page may provide the answer.
Concussion aftereffects are not caused by structural damage to the brain, butIssues of blood stasis and disrupted energy caused by impactBaekrokdam unties those tangled knots with herbal medicine.
Key disease information at a glance
- Other names
- Post-concussion syndrome, post-traumatic encephalopathy, Eohyeol (blood stasis)
- Hanja
- 腦震盪 後遺症 (Post-concussion sequelae)
- Classification
- Other diseases · Sequelae
- Main symptoms
- Headache, dizziness, brain fog, light/noise sensitivity, anxiety
- Main Causes
- Traffic accidents, falls, sports injuries, physical impact
- Diagnosis
- 맥진·복진·문진, 기혈 순환 및 어혈 정체 판별
- Treatment
- Focused on herbal medicine for removing blood stasis and restoring brain function
- Treatment Period
- Basic 2-3 months (6 months or more for chronic cases)
- 진료 방식
- 상태에 따라 대면·비대면 여부를 의료진이 판단
증상부터 생활관리까지
뇌진탕 후유증의 세부 안내를 확인하세요
Commonly heard in the clinic
Many patients visit using these expressions
The CT scan is normal, so why does my head keep feeling foggy?
I can't concentrate at all, even when I try to read a book.
I feel like I'm getting better, but the pain returns when I overexert myself.
My memory has declined so much that it's significantly affecting my work.
Just looking at the office lights makes me feel like my head is splitting.
I get startled by small noises and feel irritable.
Even after sleeping, I don't feel rested and my body feels heavy as lead.
I'm too scared of falling again to go outside.
My heart races and I have trouble sleeping.
My neck is so stiff that it's hard to turn my head.
I suddenly feel dizzy, as if the world is spinning.
I feel nauseous and sick to my stomach, so I can't eat.
My head feels foggy and congested.
I want to return to the clear mental state I had before the accident.
I'm afraid to drive because of the light glare.
I'm scared that I'll have to live with this pain for the rest of my life.
These are expressions often heard in the clinic. If this sounds like you, you may want to consider post-concussion syndrome.
Consult via telehealth →What is post-concussion syndrome?
Post-concussion syndrome occurs when there is no structural damage to the brain from an external impact, buta state where brain function is decreased and various symptoms persistit refers to. It is usually diagnosed when symptoms persist for 2 weeks to more than 3 months.
In Korean medicine, this is viewed within the categories ofBlood Stasis (瘀血)andQi Reversal (氣逆). Due to the impact, blood stagnates and the flow of energy is reversed, leading to a lack of mental clarity and pain.
In particular, heart palpitations areJeongchung (Palpitations), dizziness isHyeonhun (Vertigo)The Donguibogam also provides in-depth coverage of the mental and physical shocks that appear after trauma.
Western medical tests often result in a 'no abnormality' diagnosis, but patients브레인 포그나 감각 예민experience significant disruption in daily life. This is a signal that microcirculatory disorders in the brain have not been resolved.
The brain is a very soft tissue, so it can be damaged in various situations beyond direct impact.
뇌진탕 후유증 주요 원인, 어떻게 누적되는가
- 1 Traffic Accidents (Whiplash Injury)
When a vehicle collides, the neck and head shake back and forth, delivering micro-shocks to the brain.
- 2 Falls and Slips
When hitting the head after falling on icy roads or in the bathroom, blood stasis occurs in the vessels around the brain.
- 3 Sports Injuries
Collisions during games or repeated light impacts can gradually impair brain function.
- 4 Falls in the Elderly
As one ages, the brain's self-healing capacity weakens, causing aftereffects from light impacts to persist longer.
- 5 Psychological Trauma
The fear at the time of the accident can be imprinted on the autonomic nervous system, increasing neural sensitivity.
Concussion aftereffects manifest as a complex combination of physical pain and cognitive/emotional changes.
뇌진탕 후유증 주요 증상, 환자가 실제로 느끼는 것들
Physical and Cognitive Domain
- 지속되는 두통, 머리가 무겁거나 콕콕 쑤시는 듯한 통증이 반복됨
- 어지럼증과 메스꺼움, 세상이 도는 느낌이 들거나 속이 울렁거려 식사가 힘듦
- 브레인 포그, 머릿속에 안개가 낀 듯 멍하고 집중력이 현저히 저하됨
- 감각 과민, 밝은 빛이나 작은 소음에도 머리가 아프고 예민하게 반응함
Emotional and Autonomic Nervous System Domain
- Unexplained anxiety and heart palpitations
- Easily fatigued and unable to sleep deeply
- Decreased memory, frequently forgetting things just done
- Difficulty regulating emotions and getting irritated by trivial matters
- Back of the neck and shoulders always feel stiff and heavy
Psychological changes also occur due to imbalances in the nervous system.
If these symptomsIf they do not disappear even after 2 weeks following the accidentActive Korean medicine treatment is required.
Chronic concussion sequelae, Baekrokdam's approach
Summary, 단순히 통증 신호만 차단하는 게 아니라, 충격으로 뒤엉킨 뇌 주변의 순환 체계를 정상화하는 것이 본질이거든요.
Why Baekrokdam focuses on herbal medicine
The goal of herbal medicine is not just to suppress external symptoms, but to create a body that can recover on its own without medication.
Western medical prescriptions (painkillers, sedatives, etc.)temporarily alleviate current symptomsfocus on their specific role. However, headaches or dizziness often recur once the medication wears off. This is because the functional decline itself has not been resolved.
Herbal medicine removes blood stasis from the microvessels around the brain and improves the nutritional status of the cranial nerves.Cognitive decline symptoms, such as brain fog, will only fundamentally disappear when the autonomic nervous system, sensitized by the impact, is stabilized and cerebral blood flow is smoothed.
Why it doesn't show up well in tests
Tests look at numerical values and structures, but the essence is often a 'body imbalance' that is not easily captured by tests.
CT or MRI scans performed at university hospitalsphysical damage such as cerebral hemorrhage or fracturescheck for these. However, post-concussion syndrome is a state where the signal transmission system between brain cells is disrupted or microcirculation is blocked. This does not appear on imaging tests.
Therefore, just because the test results are normalThe patient's pain is not fake. This is because the 'function' of the brain has deteriorated, not its structure. Korean medicine precisely reads that 'state' through pulse diagnosis, abdominal tenderness, and systemic symptoms.
그래서 어떻게 치료하느냐, 백록담의 방식
We examine the entire body through inquiry, pulse diagnosis, and abdominal diagnosis, and resolve the root cause together with herbal medicine.
The brain is like a mirror reflecting the state of Qi and blood throughout the entire body. Therefore,Treatment that balances the entire bodyis necessary.
- Pulse Diagnosis (脈診), 어혈이 정체되어 있는지(삽맥), 심장이 불안하게 뛰는지(촉맥) 파악해 처방의 방향을 잡습니다
- Medical Interview, 사고 당시 상황, 수면 패턴, 빛/소음 민감도 등 주관적 증상을 상세히 분석합니다
- Abdominal Examination, 복부의 압통점을 통해 어혈의 유무와 자율신경계의 예민도를 확인합니다
Based on the information identified in this wayHerbs that remove blood stasis and herbs that stabilize the cranial nerveswe blend them according to the constitution. It is not simply a 'headache remedy,' but a comprehensive prescription that creates an environment where the brain can recover on its own.
Differentiation of post-concussion syndrome observed in clinical practice
Post-concussion syndrome is largely divided into four types depending on the cause and constitution.
Blood Stasis Accumulation Type瘀血阻滯
Those who experience piercing headaches due to blood clotting from the impact, with pain worsening at night
Treatment Direction: Activating Blood and Removing Stasis (Hwalhyeol-geo-eo)
Qi Reversal and Upward Surge Type氣逆上衝
기역상충은 위로 치받는 듯한 느낌과 함께 어지럼증·메스꺼움·상열감이 심한 분에게서 참고하는 양상이에요.
Treatment Direction: Descending Qi and Calming the Spirit (Ganggi-ansin)
Heart and Gallbladder Deficiency/Fright Type心膽虛怯
Those who experience heart palpitations after the accident, are easily startled by small noises, and suffer from insomnia
Treatment Direction: Calming the Heart and Stabilizing the Will (Jinsim-jeongji)
Liver and Kidney Yin Deficiency Type肝腎陰虛
Those with chronic symptoms, lacking energy, experiencing memory loss, blurred vision, and a heavy feeling in the head
Treatment direction: Nourishing the Liver and Kidney (滋補肝腎)
Depending on the patient's condition, these types are applied in combinationPersonalized prescriptionto compose the treatment.
Step-by-step progress of post-concussion syndrome treatment
- 1개월 차, 어혈 제거기
This period focuses on resolving stagnant blood stasis around the brain and stabilizing intracranial pressure.
- Intensity of sharp headaches begins to decrease
- Nausea and dizziness are relieved, making meals more comfortable
- Sleep quality improves, and the head gradually clears up in the morning
- 2~3개월 차, 기능 회복기
This is the stage where nutrients are supplied to the cranial nerves and cognitive functions are restored.
- Brain fog decreases and concentration recovers to pre-accident levels
- Sensitivity to light and noise decreases, enabling daily work
- 불안감과 가슴 두근거림이 사라지고 정서적 안정감 회복
- 3~4개월 차, 안정 및 강화기
This is the period for consolidating recovered brain functions and preventing recurrence.
- Management to ensure headaches do not recur during long hours of work or study
- Maintaining a healthier condition than before the accident through supplementation of Qi and Blood
- Fully restore autonomic nerve balance to strengthen stress resistance
Brain function recovery begins with unblocking tangled Qi and blood, and recovery speed varies depending on the patient's baseline physical strength.
In cases where chronic headaches or cognitive decline have already become establishedConsistent treatment for 6 months or more may be required, but it is important not to give up until the end.
진료를 더 구체적으로 시작하려면
뇌진탕 후유증 진료 전에 준비하면 좋은 정보
검사·진료 자료
기존 검사·진료 자료가 있다면: 뇌진탕 후유증과 관련해 받은 사고 당시 응급기록과 뇌 CT·MRI 결과, 신경과·재활 진료기록
복용 중인 약
현재 복용 중인 약은 처방전·약 봉투·약 이름 사진 또는 복용 목록으로, 건강기능식품과 함께 정리해 주세요
증상과 변화
관찰해 오면 좋은 변화: 두통·어지럼·집중 저하·수면 변화와 화면·운동 후 악화 여부.
증상 예시 자세히 보기
뇌진탕 후유증과 관련해 느끼는 증상(지속되는 두통, 머리가 무겁거나 콕콕 쑤시는 듯한 통증이 반복됨·어지럼증과 메스꺼움, 세상이 도는 느낌이 들거나 속이 울렁거려 식사가 힘듦·브레인 포그, 머릿속에 안개가 낀 듯 멍하고 집중력이 현저히 저하됨)의 빈도와 강도도 함께 적어 주세요
이전 치료 반응
이전 치료의 반응: 치료명과 기간, 좋아진 점·남은 불편·중단한 이유·이상반응, 다시 악화된 시점을 함께 적어 주세요
이전 치료 뒤에도 불편이 남거나 다시 반복되나요? 지금까지 받은 검사·치료와 그 뒤 달라진 점을 적어 주세요. 거리가 있어 내원이 쉽지 않아도 먼저 문의하시면 의료진이 대면·비대면 중 적합한 진료 방식을 안내합니다.
Diseases often confused with post-concussion syndrome
These are diseases with symptoms similar to post-concussion syndrome that require differential diagnosis.
Unstoppable vomiting, clouded consciousness, and paralysis in one arm or leg occur. This is an emergency and requires immediate detailed examination.
Headaches caused by problems in the neck joints; often accompanies concussions, but pain is managed only when neck treatment is performed concurrently.
Severe vertigo occurs only when turning the head in a specific direction. Post-concussion syndrome often involves a foggy feeling and dizziness regardless of movement.
Fear and avoidance reactions due to memories of the accident predominate over physical pain. In Korean medicine, this is viewed as Sim-Dam-Heo-Geop and treated accordingly.
Concussion sequelae treatment reviews
Frequently Asked Questions about Concussion Sequelae
뇌진탕 후유증 검사는 어떻게 하나요?
사고 당시 의식·기억 변화와 이후 두통·어지럼·인지·수면 증상을 확인하고 신경학적 진찰을 해요. CT·MRI는 출혈이나 구조 손상을 배제하는 데 쓰지만 후유증의 정도는 증상과 기능 평가를 함께 봐야 합니다. 백록담에서는 영상 결과와 목 긴장·메스꺼움·두근거림·수면을 살펴 어혈·기역·담음과 기혈 손상의 양상을 변증합니다.
뇌진탕 후유증 회복에 좋은 음식은 무엇인가요?
특정 음식이 뇌진탕 후유증을 없애지는 않지만 수분을 충분히 마시고 규칙적인 식사로 회복에 필요한 단백질과 에너지를 채우는 것이 좋아요. 두통과 수면을 악화시킬 수 있는 술은 피하고, 메스꺼움이 있다면 소량씩 나누어 먹으세요. 반복 구토·심해지는 두통·의식 변화·마비가 있으면 식사 관리보다 즉시 재평가가 우선이며, 안정기에는 어혈·기역과 소화 상태를 함께 살펴 회복 리듬을 잡습니다.
How does Korean medicine view concussion sequelae?
In Korean medicine, this is viewed as a state of 'Eohyeol' (stagnant blood) caused by external impact and 'Giyeok' (reversal of qi). Since the cause is the blockage of circulation in the microvessels around the brain, cutting off the nutrient supply, we proceed with treatment to clear the stagnant blood and help stabilize the cranial nerves.
My CT or MRI scans are normal, so why do I still feel pain?
That is the most frustrating part for patients with concussion sequelae. Imaging tests only detect 'structural abnormalities' such as cerebral hemorrhage or fractures. However, actual pain comes from 'functional decline' of the brain. Our role is to identify the minute circulatory disorders and nerve sensitivity that tests cannot detect through Korean medicine diagnosis.
Several months have passed since the accident; will taking herbal medicine still be effective?
Yes, absolutely. In cases where symptoms have become chronic due to insufficient initial response, Korean medicine treatment to reinforce qi and blood and remove stagnant blood is essential. Brain function can only return to normal once the 'stagnant blood'—which does not heal on its own over time—is removed.
Can brain fog (mental cloudiness) also be improved?
Yes, it is possible. Brain fog appears when the brain's metabolic function drops and inflammatory responses persist. By increasing cerebral blood flow and calming nerve inflammation through herbal medicine, you can feel your head clear and your concentration recover, as if a fog is lifting.
Is it possible to be prescribed herbal medicine through non-face-to-face consultation?
네, 가능합니다. 백록담은 비대면 진료 시스템을 갖추고 있어, 사고 후 거동이 불편하시거나 거리가 멀어도 상세한 전화 문진을 통해 환자분의 증상과 진료 후 처방이 결정되면 조제·수령 방법을 안내드립니다.
How long is the expected treatment period?
It varies depending on the severity of symptoms and the onset time, but we generally recommend 2 to 3 months of intensive treatment. For elderly patients or those whose symptoms have become chronic after being left untreated for several months, long-term reinforcement of qi and blood and management for 6 months or more may be necessary.
Are concussion sequelae and post-traumatic headaches the same disease?
Concussion sequelae refer to a state where various symptoms, including post-traumatic headaches, dizziness, and cognitive decline, appear complexly. It is not just about head pain, but a syndrome where functional damage to the brain has not recovered, causing inconvenience in daily life. Therefore, comprehensive management is needed to not only relieve pain but also help stabilize the cranial nervous system.
My head feels foggy and I can't concentrate after the accident; is this a concussion sequela?
Yes, if you felt fine immediately after the accident but later experience symptoms such as a ringing head or brain fog, there is a high possibility of concussion sequelae. Even if there are no abnormalities on imaging tests, patients can continue to feel subjective discomfort such as mental cloudiness, tinnitus, or vertigo. In Korean medicine, this is viewed as a problem of minute stagnant blood around the brain, and we help recovery by promoting the flow of qi and blood.
Other conditions to consider alongside post-concussion syndrome
Please check for other symptoms related to brain function and neurological issues.
근거와 검토 정보
뇌진탕 후유증 안내에 참고한 자료
아래 자료는 질환의 일반적인 정의·증상·검사·안전 기준을 확인하는 데 사용했습니다. 백록담의 진료 관점은 이 자료의 결론을 그대로 옮긴 것이 아니며, 개인에게 적용할 때는 진찰과 검사 결과를 함께 봐야 합니다.
콘텐츠 검토 기준일:
- 미국 국립신경질환·뇌졸중연구소(NINDS), 외상성 뇌손상
이 자료에서 확인한 범위뇌진탕 뒤 수주 이상 지속되는 증상과 회복 범위를 설명하고 경련·반복 구토·새 신경 증상은 즉시 평가하는 기준
- 미국 질병통제예방센터(CDC), 뇌진탕 증상과 회복
이 자료에서 확인한 범위두통·어지럼·인지·수면 변화와 즉시 진료할 위험 신호
- NIH MedlinePlus - Traumatic Brain Injury
이 자료에서 확인한 범위정의·일반 의학정보에 관한 공공 안내 또는 진료지침의 일반 원칙을 확인하기 위한 자료
- Mayo Clinic - Concussion
이 자료에서 확인한 범위증상·원인에 관한 의료기관·전문단체의 일반 의학정보를 확인하기 위한 자료
함께 보면 좋은 문서
다음으로 보면 좋은 자료
현재 보고 있는 문서Concussion Aftereffects
관련 주제와 진료 정보를 이어서 확인하면 이해가 더 빠릅니다.
이 페이지의 요약과 검수 정보
검수 의료진
최연승 한의사 Chief Director
페이지 요약
뇌진탕 후유증은 머리 충격 뒤 영상검사가 정상이어도 두통·어지럼·메스꺼움·집중 저하와 빛·소리 민감이 이어지는 상태입니다. 증상 경과를 살피되 악화되는 두통·반복 구토·의식 변화는 지연성 출혈 가능성 때문에 즉시 재평가합니다.
이 페이지가 다루는 내용
- 무엇을 설명하나요
- 뇌진탕 뒤 CT는 정상인데 머리가 멍하고 울렁거리면 어떻게 해야 하나요?
- 어떤 상황을 다루나요
- 머리 충격 뒤 두통·어지럼·메스꺼움과 집중 저하가 지속되는 분을 위한 내용입니다.
- 무엇을 구별해서 보나요
- 구조 이상이 없는 뇌진탕 후 증상과 진행성 두개내 손상의 경고 신호를 경과로 구분합니다.
- 어떻게 이해하면 되나요
- 두통이 심해지거나 반복 구토·졸림·마비·의식 변화가 나타나면 즉시 응급실로 가야 합니다.
핵심 내용
- 뇌진탕 후유증은 구조적 손상이 보이지 않아도 뇌 기능 저하에 따른 증상이 지속되는 상태입니다.
- 두통·어지럼 같은 신체 증상과 집중 저하·감정 변화가 함께 나타날 수 있습니다.
- 반복 구토·의식 혼탁·한쪽 팔다리 마비가 나타나면 즉시 정밀 검사가 필요합니다.