Concussions

A concussion is a type of traumatic brain injury caused by a sudden blow or jolt to the head. This blow causes the brain to shake rapidly inside of the skull, and can result in temporary changes to the chemistry of the brain, as well as physical damage to the membranes and neurons within the brain. Every year, millions of people in the United States experience a concussion, yet many do not seek medical attention for their injury. The most common cause of concussions is a direct blow to the head, but such a blow does not need to be hard enough to cause unconsciousness for a concussion to occur. Concussions are classified into several different types based on the symptoms they cause and the mechanism of injury. All concussions involve a disruption of brain function, but some result in more serious complications than others. It is important to recognize the signs and symptoms of a concussion to ensure that appropriate medical attention is sought and that the person receives the appropriate care for their injury. Common symptoms of a concussion include headaches, nausea, dizziness, difficulty thinking, difficulty concentrating, memory problems, irritability, depression, anxiety, balance issues, and vision changes. In some cases, complications from a concussion may be more severe and long-lasting. It is important to seek medical attention immediately if someone experiences a severe headache or vomiting, confusion or memory loss, difficulty speaking, loss of balance, loss of consciousness, or any other signs of neurological impairment following a head injury. Treatment for a concussion typically involves a period of defined rest – both physical and cognitive – along with any additional care needed to address the individual’s symptoms. Preventing concussions is an important part of reducing the health risks associated with these injuries. Wearing a properly fitting helmet and doing activities in a safe manner reduces the risk of a concussion. It is also important to be aware of the symptoms of a concussion so that medical attention can be sought if needed.