Which of the following is NOT an initial symptom of post-concussional syndrome?

Post-concussional syndrome (PCS) is a complex disorder that can occur after a concussion or mild traumatic brain injury. Initial symptoms typically include headache, dizziness, and nausea, which are commonly reported by individuals shortly after the injury.

Headache is one of the most frequent complaints following a concussion, often resulting from the physiological changes and stress placed on the brain. Dizziness can manifest as a sense of imbalance or a spinning sensation, also stemming from disturbances in the vestibular system or changes in brain function. Nausea may arise due to the body’s response to brain injury, affecting equilibrium and prompting gastrointestinal discomfort.

In contrast, insomnia, while it may indeed develop as part of the broader spectrum of symptoms in PCS, is generally not categorized as an initial symptom. Sleep disturbances tend to emerge later as individuals grapple with ongoing headache, anxiety, or depressive symptoms associated with the aftermath of a concussion. This distinguishes insomnia from the immediate physical symptoms that typically manifest right after the injury occurs, highlighting why it is not considered an initial symptom of post-concussional syndrome.