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Understanding Concussions: What You Need to Know
When we think of a concussion, we often picture someone getting hit on the head, but it’s more than just a bump. A concussion is a brain injury, and it’s something we should take seriously. Imagine the pathways in our brain that carry nerve signals as delicate strings. When these strings get stretched due to an injury, swelling occurs. Our body, sensing the damage, rushes blood to the brain to help it heal, which means it might take some blood away from other parts of the body. This response is a part of how our body tries to protect us.
How Do Concussions Happen?
Concussions don’t only occur from a blow to the head. They can happen when any external force strikes the body, causing the brain to move rapidly within the skull. Think of it like this: if you’re in a car and get rear-ended, even if your head doesn’t hit anything, the sudden jolt can cause your brain to slam against the inside of your skull. This is similar to what happens during a clean body check in sports or a fall down the stairs. The brain’s movement, not just a direct hit, is what causes a concussion.
Common Concussion Symptoms
Recognizing concussion symptoms is key to getting the right help. Some of the most common signs include:
- Dizziness
- Headache
- Fatigue
- Trouble concentrating
- Feeling “in a fog”
- Irritability
- Sensitivity to light
- Sensitivity to sound
- Nausea
These symptoms can show up immediately, but sometimes, they take hours or even days to appear.
Can Concussion Symptoms Come Back?
If not properly managed, concussion symptoms can return. Concussions impact various systems in the body, including the vestibular system (which helps with balance), the neck muscles (often strained during whiplash), and vision. If any of these areas are left untreated, symptoms can re-emerge. Treatment should ensure that all affected systems are fully healed and able to handle daily tasks. For example:
- If you drive to work, can you tolerate the motion of cars and poles passing by?
- If you’re a runner, can you run the distance you want without symptoms?
- If you work at a computer, can you handle the screen time and scrolling text?
Diagnosing a Concussion
The best way to diagnose a concussion is by seeing a healthcare provider who understands these symptoms. Tools like the SCAT (Sports Concussion Assessment Tool) or the Buffalo Concussion Test can help confirm a concussion. However, it’s important to note that imaging tests like a CT scan or MRI won’t show a concussion. These tests are used to rule out other injuries, but they can’t diagnose a concussion itself.
Initial Treatment for a Concussion
In the early stages after a concussion, conserving energy is crucial. Since the body is focused on healing the brain, using too much energy on physical activities can put your body into a deficit. On average, the body uses about 40% more energy when healing from a concussion, so rest is vital. But what does rest really mean in this context?
Rest doesn’t just mean sleeping or lying down; it also means avoiding activities that strain the brain, such as watching TV, playing video games, reading, or using a cell phone. It’s encouraged to allow those suffering from a concussion to rest without interruptions. You don’t need to wake them up every hour or keep them in a dark room, but giving their brain a break from stimulation is key to recovery.
The average recovery time for a concussion in adults is about 7-14 days, but it can take up to 30 days for adolescents. Each person’s recovery is different, so it’s important to follow the guidance of a healthcare provider.
Managing Concussions with Care
Concussions are complex injuries that affect multiple systems in the body. They require careful management to ensure full recovery and prevent symptoms from returning. If you or someone you know has suffered a concussion, it’s important to seek proper care and follow through with treatment.
As a certified concussion management provider, I am here to guide you through the process. Whether it’s recognizing symptoms, understanding the injury, or following a treatment plan, I’m committed to helping you recover fully and get back to your normal activities safely.
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