The effects of the alcohol should not be permanent. The main concern is that the effects of the alcohol can magnify the effects of a concussion causing a coma or mask the presence of a serious head injury such as a bleed in the brain. However, the alcohol is usually metabolized after several hours. All that said, don't drink alcohol. You are 17 years old. It is illegal and starting alcohol consumption early places you at a greater risk of alcohol related accidents and alcoholism as you mature into adulthood. I would recommend getting an evaluation with your primary care physician regarding any persistent symptoms and also ask them to screen you for alcohol abuse/alcoholism risks.

No that is not a valid concern, but you shouldn't be drinking you are a minor.

It is very unlikely that the alcohol you consumed will cause permanent effects on your brain. The head injury you have suffered however could have long lasting effects if not managed properly. Over the last 35 years we have treated thousands of patients with learning disabilities and cognitive problems, we are almost always able to trace their problem back to a head injury they suffered when they were younger. When you suffer a concussion it mean that an area of your brain has been injured, and could cause permanent damage if not treated properly. It is especially dangerous if you have another blow to the head, once you have had one concussion you are much more susceptible to having another one. Most concussions do get better within a few weeks, however it is always best to be supervised by a doctor who has specialized training in managing concussions. I f you look up

shiftconcussion.ca there is directory of clinics who have this training. Concussions should not be taken lightly as most are not treated properly, this is illustrated by an upcoming movie staring Will Smith called " Concussion " which reveals a lot of the controversy surrounding the concussion issue.

If the sleeping issues or headaches continue or if any other symptoms come up it means that there will be ongoing problems that need to be dealt with

Good luck with your recovery

Dr Allen Turner

If I can of any further help in finding a solution let me know

Dr Allen Turner