Concussions are a type of mild traumatic brain injury that can have serious effects on the body and brain if not properly managed. Whether caused by a blow to the head, a fall, or a car accident, concussions affect millions of people every year. We’ll dive into what concussions are, how they happen, the common symptoms to watch for, and when it’s time to seek professional help.
What is a Concussion?
A concussion occurs when a blow to the head or body causes the brain to move rapidly inside the skull, leading to a temporary disruption in brain function. While the injury itself may seem mild, concussions can result in a variety of physical, emotional, and cognitive symptoms that require proper care and recovery.
Though most concussions are considered “mild,” the effects can range from subtle to severe. It’s important to understand that even a mild concussion can have long-lasting consequences if not treated appropriately.
How Do Concussions Happen?
Concussions can happen in a variety of ways, not just through sport! The most common causes include:
- Sports-related injuries: Contact sports like football, soccer, and hockey, as well as activities like skiing and cycling, put athletes at high risk for concussions.
- Falls: Falling from a height, slipping on a wet surface, or tripping over an object can result in a concussion.
- Motor vehicle accidents: The jolt from a car crash or sudden deceleration can cause the brain to slam against the skull, leading to a concussion.
- Assault or physical violence: Blows to the head from an assault, fight, or physical altercation can cause concussions.
- Other accidents: Everyday accidents such as bumping your head, being struck by an object, or any event where the head experiences a sudden, forceful impact can cause a concussion.
Common Symptoms of Concussions
The symptoms of a concussion can vary widely, and they might not always show up immediately. Common symptoms include:
- Headaches: This is the most common symptom following a concussion. The pain may range from mild to severe and could worsen with physical activity.
- Dizziness or balance issues: People who have concussions often feel dizzy or off-balance, which can increase the risk of further injury.
- Confusion or memory loss: Short-term memory problems, difficulty concentrating, or confusion about recent events can indicate a concussion.
- Nausea and vomiting: Feeling nauseous or actually vomiting after an impact could be signs of a concussion.
- Sensitivity to light or noise: Many people with concussions develop heightened sensitivity to bright lights or loud sounds.
- Tiredness and difficulty sleeping: Fatigue, difficulty falling asleep, or sleeping more than usual are common after a concussion.
- Mood swings: Anxiety, irritability, and depression are all mood-related symptoms that can occur after a concussion.
- Blurred vision: Vision problems, including double vision or blurry eyesight, are common after a concussion.
These symptoms may show up immediately or within a few hours or days after the injury. In some cases, symptoms may persist for weeks or even longer. If you or someone you know is experiencing any of these symptoms, it’s essential to monitor them closely.
When to Seek Medical Help
If you suspect you or someone you know has a concussion, it’s crucial to take the injury seriously. While some concussions resolve on their own with rest, others may require medical attention. Here’s when to seek help:
Immediate Medical Attention
- Loss of consciousness: If the person loses consciousness, even briefly, it’s important to seek emergency medical care immediately.
- Severe headaches: If the person experiences worsening headaches, especially with nausea or vomiting, it could indicate a more serious issue like swelling or bleeding in the brain.
- Seizures: If there are any signs of seizures, this is a medical emergency, and immediate care is needed.
- Vision or speech problems: Difficulty seeing, speaking, or understanding speech can signal more severe brain injury.
When to See a Doctor
- Persistent symptoms: If symptoms like headaches, dizziness, or difficulty concentrating last for more than a couple of days or worsen over time, a visit to a doctor is necessary for proper diagnosis and management.
- Cognitive issues: If memory problems, confusion, or trouble concentrating continue to persist, it’s a good idea to consult with a healthcare provider to rule out any long-term effects or more serious brain injury.
- Mood changes: Sudden, severe mood swings, or feelings of anxiety, depression, or irritability should be discussed with a healthcare professional, as they may be linked to the concussion.
When to See a Physiotherapist
After a concussion, some people benefit from seeing a physio, especially if they are struggling with balance, neck pain, or headaches that do not resolve. Our physios can assess the impact of the concussion on physical and cognitive functions, helping with:
- Balance and coordination
- Neck pain
- Headaches
- Return to physical activity
If you’re feeling unsure, come in and have a chat with one of our physios.
