Concussions are a form of traumatic brain injury that can greatly impact your life. The effects of this type of injury vary based on the severity and location of the damage. These same factors also determine how the injury is treated.
People often misunderstand the specifics of concussions. Learning about them can help individuals recognize the symptoms. It can also assist with their recovery since they will know what to expect.
Causes of concussions
Contrary to what some people believe, you don’t have to hit your head to suffer from a concussion. You can end up with this injury if your head is shaken in a violent manner. The brain can be damaged when it slams against the inside of the skull.
The force of impact to cause a concussion doesn’t have to be great. Even minor blows to the head may lead to a concussion. The brain is a sensitive organ that can be damaged by even minor incidents.
It is possible that accidents like car wrecks, contact in sports and falls can lead to concussions. Whether you hit your head or if it is flung around, you should be vigilant in watching for signs of a brain injury.
Signs of a concussion
Not all concussions are evident right away. You might not experience any symptoms for a few days or even weeks after the incident, depending on the severity, location and type of injury. You should be watchful for signs including:
- Headache, either sudden and severe or mild and persistent
- Nausea, with or without vomiting
- Loss of consciousness, either short-term or long-term
- Confusion, can involve trouble concentrating
- Dizziness, may include trouble with balance and coordination
- Fatigue, might be very sleepy or hard to wake
- Moodiness or irritability, can be sudden or constant
- Trouble sleeping, either sleeping more or less
- Vision troubles, can be blurry or hard to focus
- Memory troubles, including difficulty learning new things or remembering past events
- Seizures or a coma
Medical care after a concussion
If you notice anything that might be a sign of a concussion or any other head injury, you should visit a doctor. They will do an evaluation to determine what is going on. You will likely be given a treatment plan that includes brain rest. This will probably require you to take time off work so your brain can heal. It is imperative that you follow the doctor’s orders.
