What is a concussion?

A concussion is a form of a traumatic brain injury that temporarily prevents the brain from working normally.  A concussion occurs by a blow to the head or the body, which forces the brain to move back and forth rapidly within the skull, rendering it difficult for the brain to perform.   Normally, the brain is cushioned by fluid which prevents it from hitting into the skull during movement.  However, when there is an unexpected blow to the body, the fluid may not serve as enough cushioning to prevent the brain from crashing into the skull.

What causes a concussion?

There are many causes for concussions.  Common blows to the head are a result of car or bicycle accidents, fights, children or adults falling, as well as sports including: boxing, football, snowboarding, cheerleading and soccer, to name a few. 

Recognizing a concussion

If you or someone you know has experienced a forceful or unexpected blow to the head or body, and also exhibits any change in their behavior, thinking or functioning, it is important to seek medical attention.  It is important to note that not everyone who experiences a concussion loses consciousness and it can be difficult to assess if someone has experienced a concussion.  Signs and symptoms may range from mild to severe and can last for minutes, hours, days, weeks or months. 

Signs of a concussion

-Loss of consciousness

-Mood changes

-Confusion, forgetfulness, appearing dazed

-Speaking slowly or increased response time to questioning

-Loss of memory of events prior to or after the hit

-Clumsy or uncoordinated movement 

Symptoms of a concussion

-Headache

-Blurry or double vision, "seeing stars"

-Difficulty concentrating or memory loss

-Balance or coordination difficulty

-Dizziness, feeling lightheaded

-Nausea or vomiting

-Sensitivity to light or noise

-Ringing in the ears

-Feeling sluggish 

How is it treated?

-It is important to be treated by a medical doctor and have necessary diagnostic imaging such as an MRI or CT scan to rule out damage to the brain.

-Monitor signs and symptoms over a period of time to note any new changes in behavior or symptoms.

-Get plenty of sleep and rest to allow the brain proper time to heal. 

-To prevent a second brain injury, avoid alcohol, illegal drugs, and any activities that could lead to another head injury for a few days or even a few weeks.

-Do not return to a sport until clearance from a medical doctor has been given.  There is an increased risk of having a more serious brain injury by becoming active again before the brain returns to normal functioning.

*It is also important to call your doctor if you are not improving as expected or if you think that you are getting worse instead of better.

Prevention

Reduce your chances of getting a concussion:

-It is recommended that schools and sports leagues develop a concussion action plan.  These plans help monitor rates of concussions, educate players about recognizing and treating concussions, as well as conduct pre- and postseason baseline testing to assess brain function of players.

-Wear safety equipment such as helmets during biking, rollerblading, snowboarding, football, etc.

- Always wear a seat belt in the car.  Do not drive under the influence of drugs or alcohol.

-Make your home as fall-proof and accident free as possible with appropriate lighting, friction mats within bathtubs, clear walkways, etc.