A concussion is a type of TBI or traumatic brain injury that causes the brain to move rapidly inside the skull. This sudden movement could cause the brain to become bruised, stretched, and damaged, leading to various symptoms.
Concussions can occur in any sport or activity, and even minor impacts can have serious consequences. It is necessary to recognize the signs and symptoms of a concussion and take steps to protect yourself from further injury.
In this post, we’re sharing what you need to know about concussions, including their symptoms, causes, and treatment:
Symptoms of a Concussion
As mentioned, concussions are a type of traumatic brain injury that can have severe physical, cognitive, and emotional symptoms. While the severity of symptoms can vary from person to person, it is crucial to be aware of the signs and symptoms of a concussion.
The most common symptoms of a concussion include the following:
- Headache: This is the most common symptom of a concussion and can range from mild to severe.
- Nausea and vomiting: This can be due to the physical trauma of the injury or the brain’s response to the injury.
- Loss of consciousness: This can range from a brief loss of consciousness to a longer period of unconsciousness.
- Confusion: This can manifest as confusion, disorientation, or difficulty concentrating.
- Memory loss: This can include short-term memory loss, difficulty recalling events leading up to the injury, or difficulty forming new memories.
- Dizziness or balance problems: This can range from feeling off-balance to severe dizziness.
- Sensitivity to light or noise: This can manifest as feeling overwhelmed by bright lights or loud noises.
- Difficulty with coordination: This can manifest as difficulty with fine motor skills, including writing or typing, or gross motor skills, such as walking or running.
- Changes in behavior or mood: This can manifest as irritability, sadness, or a personality change.
If you have reason to believe you or a loved one has a concussion, it is vital to seek medical attention immediately. The sooner the injury is diagnosed and treated, the better the outcome.
Causes of a Concussion
The most common cause of a concussion is a blow to the head. This can occur from a fall, an automobile accident, a sports-related accident, or a physical altercation. Even a seemingly minor bump to the head can cause a concussion, as the impact may result in the brain moving inside the skull and become injured.
Concussions can also result from a whiplash-type motion, such as when a person’s head is abruptly jerked backward and forward. This motion can cause the brain to move inside the skull and become injured.
Less common causes of a concussion include a penetrating head injury, such as a gunshot wound or a blast injury. These types of injuries are more likely to be fatal but can also cause a concussion.
If you have suffered a concussion, following your doctor’s instructions for recovery is essential. This may include rest and avoiding activities that could further injure your brain. It is also important to seek follow-up care and keep track of your symptoms to ensure that the concussion has fully healed.
Concussion Treatment
Immediate treatment for a concussion includes rest and monitoring of the patient’s symptoms. The patient should remain in a quiet environment with minimal stimulation and not return to physical activity until all symptoms have resolved. In some cases, a doctor may prescribe medication to help manage pain or other symptoms.
If symptoms persist, the patient may require further treatment. This may include physical therapy, occupational therapy, and cognitive therapy. Physical therapy can help to strengthen the neck and core muscles, which can help reduce the risk of future concussions. Occupational therapy can help the patient return to daily activities, such as work, school, or sports. Cognitive therapy can help the patient to manage symptoms such as headaches, dizziness, confusion, and memory loss.
In addition to physical and cognitive therapy, a patient may need to make lifestyle changes to reduce the risk of future concussions. This may include avoiding contact sports, wearing a protective helmet, and getting regular exercise.
Conclusion
Concussions are a type of serious injury that can have serious long-term effects. Symptoms of a concussion can be mild or severe. They can include headache, nausea, confusion, memory loss, difficulty concentrating, dizziness, fatigue, and sensitivity to light and sound. Concussions can be caused by a direct blow to the head or body, an indirect blow to the head, or a whiplash-type motion. It is imperative to get checked and seek concussion treatment if needed.
Manhas Health offers concussion treatment in Coquitlam, among other services. Schedule an appointment today!
