A concussion is a mild traumatic brain injury caused by a physical force or blow to the head or body that disturbs the way your brain normally works. Concussions are not life threatening but, their effects can be serious. They can cause physical symptoms, problems with thinking or remembering, emotional or mood changes, and sleep disturbances. Recognition and proper response to a suspected concussion can help prevent further injury or even death.
Common signs and symptoms of concussion include:
- Difficulty thinking
- Feeling slow
- Difficulty concentrating or remembering
- Headaches
- Blurry vision
- Nausea or vomiting
- Sensitivity to light or noise
- Balance problems
- Feeling tired
- More irritable or sad than usual
- Sleeping more or less than usual
Contact your health care professional or emergency department immediately with any of the following RED FLAG WARNING SIGNS: worsening headaches, weakness, numbness, decreased coordination, persistent vomiting, slurred speech, loss of vision, change in mental status, looking drowsy or cannot be awakened, unequal pupil size, convulsions or seizures, inability to recognize people or places, increasing confusion or agitation, any unusual behavior, loss of consciousness.
Most people recover from a concussion in 7-10 days, but for some people, symptoms can last weeks to months. If you suspect concussion, you should be seen by a health care professional knowledgeable in concussion to help speed your recovery. Athletes with a suspected concussion should never return to sports or physical activity on the day of injury.
Getting plenty of rest and sleep helps the brain heal. Avoid activities that are mentally and physically stimulating and do not try to do too much too fast. Do not return to sports until you are cleared by a health care professional. A repeat concussion or stress to a brain that is not fully healed can be very dangerous and increase your risk for long-term complications.
