A common traumatic brain injury, a concussion is caused by a bump, blow, or jolt to the head that disrupts normal function of the brain.
What Causes a Concussion?
Moving forces. Falls are a common cause. Sports injuries, car accidents and acts of violence are other ways.
What are the signs and symptoms of a Concussion?
Symptoms include;
Sensitivity to light or noise
Dizziness or lightheadedness
Double or fuzzy vision
Feeling foggy
Cognitive fatigue
Headache
Nausea
Difficulties concentrating
Increased anxiety
Additional signs include;
Changes in behaviour
Sleeping much more of less that usual
Decreased emotional control
Distractible
How long is the recovery time?
80% of patients diagnosed with concussion recover in approximately 3 weeks.
For the remaining 20% post concussion syndrome symptoms can linger for much longer.
How is a concussion diagnosed?
It is important to note that there is no perfect concussion test. Minor brain injuries, like concussions don’t show up on CT or MRI scans.
A concussion care professional will use multiple evaluations in order to determine the clinical trajectory of your concussion (Did you know there are 6 types?).
What to do if you are suspecting a concussion?
If you suspect that you have sustained a concussion stop performing any activity immediately.
For 24-48 hours mental and physical rest is best. Think a cool dark room with minimal distractions, Netflix doesn’t count as rest!
Seek medical care from a concussion care provider.
Should I go to the hospital?
Red Flags that indicate a trip to the ER include;
Sustained in a motor vehicle accident
Changes in consciousness
Convulsions
Dilated pupils
Severe and worsening headache
Extreme weakness
Repeated vomiting
Deafness
Slurred speech
Can you treat concussions?
Yes FACT concussions ARE treatable.
After the initial 24-48 hour rest period it’s best to gradually return to activity (this includes work, sport and learning) This can be something discussed and supervised with your trained health care provider.
What to expect during a Concussion Evaluation?
Your assessment should include a detailed clinical interview, including a full report on symptoms. You want to make sure that your health care provider has been trained in concussion care, and that you feel seen and heard at your appointment. Your clinician should do their best to get a full picture of your experience and concerns. If you are concerned that your clinician is being dismissive of your pain you don’t have to go back, you can choose differently!
Additional evaluations to expect are vestibular ocular screening (a series of eye tracking and vestibular tests), balance testing (checking our awareness of position and movement of body) and neurocognitive testing.
There should also be clear communication regarding your treatment plan going forward.
Remember it is important for you to complain the best you can during these evaluations! Don’t hide your symptoms. All feedback you offer provides important information that helps clinicians determine concussion trajectories and helps to create a rehabilitation plan specific to your needs.
Concussion Myths
Myth #1: Sports injuries are the main cause of concussions
Truth: Falls are the #1 cause.
Myth #2: You have to lose consciousness to get a concussion
Truth: More than 90% of concussions happen without loss of consciousness.
Myth #3: You shouldn’t sleep after a concussion.
Truth: Sleep can help your brain get needed rest after concussion, especially in the first couple days.
Myth #4: Resting in a dark room is the best way to recover from a concussion.
Truth: A brief period of rest, followed by gradual return to activity is the expert recommendation.
Myth #5: It takes months to recover from a concussion.
Truth: 80% of people with concussion diagnoses recover in 3 weeks or less.
What can I do now?
While rest is crucial the first 24-48 hours after a concussion it’s important to address your specific physical and cognitive needs soon after.
Check in with your health care provider to further address your concerns.
