Concussions may leave structural brain changes after symptoms disappear

Concussions can have a lasting impact on the structure of the brain months after the initial injury, according to new research. These changes can linger long after clinical symptoms — such as dizziness and impaired balance — have disappeared. The study could help scientist better understand the long term effects of concussion on injured athletes. However, the link between these structural changes in the brain and any long-term effect on the individual’s behavior and cognition are still not known.

Scientists already knew that sport-related concussions can cause structural wear and tear on the brain. But this study, which is being presented as an abstract at the American Academy of Neurology’s Sports Concussion Conference tomorrow,...