A concussion is a brain injury that results from mechanical force or trauma and causes temporary loss of normal brain function. Concussions are mainly caused by falls but can also be due to direct impact from getting hit or being in an accident. They can also result from rapid acceleration-deceleration of the head, like blast injuries or whiplash. Many people associate San Diego concussion with loss of consciousness or passing out, but this is not true. In most cases, people with a concussion don’t lose consciousness and external signs of head trauma, as bleeding may also be absent.
Symptoms of a concussion
Concussions can interfere with one’s judgment, memory, speech, balance, and muscle coordination. People with concussions usually experience a short period of forgetfulness or amnesia, where they can’t remember what transpired before or after the injury. An individual may also be dazed, confused, or describe seeing stars. Athletic trainers or paramedics who suspect a person has suffered a concussion may ask them questions, including their name, current month or year, and where they are.
Although some concussions are less severe than others, none should be taken lightly. A single concussion usually doesn’t cause permanent damage, but a second soon after the first one doesn’t have to be strong for it to be permanently disabling. Below are common symptoms that people experience after a concussion smihub.
- Headache
- Confusion
- Memory loss
- Vision disturbances
- Ringing ears
- Sensitivity to light
- Trouble sleeping
- Loss of taste or smell
- Difficulty concentrating
- Imbalance or dizziness
If you experience these after a blow to the head, consult a healthcare professional as soon as possible.
Potential complications
After a concussion, some people may suffer persistent symptoms such as concentration problems, mood swings, headache, personality changes, fatigue, insomnia, dizziness, and excessive drowsiness. These symptoms can linger on for several weeks or months – a condition called a post-concussive syndrome. Patients with these symptoms should avoid activities that put them at risk of a second concussion. You should not return to play when experiencing post-concussive syndrome if you are an athlete. Athletes who’ve had repeated concussions should consider ending their sports participation.
Another concussion after the first one can result in acute and often fatal brain swelling. This occurs when an individual sustains a second concussion before completely recovering from the previous one. The impact causes vascular congestion and increased intracranial pressure; this can occur rapidly and may be difficult or impossible to control. Your risk of second impact syndrome is higher if you play sports like football, boxing, soccer, basketball, baseball, ice or roller hockey, and Urdughr skiing.
Tips to prevent head injury
- Wear protective gear whenever you need to participate in a sport or other recreational activity. Use the right equipment and ensure it fits properly and is worn correctly. It is also important to abide by the game’s rules and practice good sportsmanship.
- Buckle your seat belt all the time to prevent serious injury during a traffic accident.
- Make sure your home is safe. Light up all the spaces and keep your floors free from anything that may cause you to trip and fall.
If you suffer a head injury, visit your physician at MindSet for treatment to avoid future complications.
