.png)
A concussion, or mild traumatic brain injury(mTBI), is a brain injury that occurs when force is transmitted to the brain causing it to move quickly within the skull. This sudden movement causes a disruption in how parts of the brain communicate and results in a variety of symptoms. Concussions usually occur from a direct blow to the head, but can also occur when a hit or blow to the body transmits a force to the head causing the brain to violently move back and forth inside the skull. Although a concussion by itself is not life threatening, it is a serious injury that should be treated by experts in concussion care.
Symptoms you may feel:
Physical
· Headache
· Nausea
· Vomiting
· Balance problems
· Dizziness
· Visual problems
· Fatigue
· Sensitivity to light
· Sensitivity to noise
· Numbness/tingling
Cognitive (Mental)
· Feeling mentally foggy
· Feeling slowed down
· Difficulty concentrating
· Difficulty remembering
Emotional
· Irritability or moodiness
· Sadness
· Decreased interest in hobbies
· Nervousness
Sleep
· Drowsiness
· Sleeping less than usual
· Sleeping more than usual
· Trouble falling asleep
Diagnosing a Concussion
A physical exam and careful history are the best ways to diagnose a concussion.
Treatment and Recovery
Recovery from concussion isa complex and dynamic process. During recovery it is critical to identify the factors responsible for symptoms and to develop a treatment plan targeting them. If recovery is not properly managed it can lead to unnecessarily prolonged recovery. Management of recovery should be individualized and directed by a healthcare provider with expertise in concussion care who has ready access to treatment resources.
There are three phases of concussion recovery:
1. Acute Symptomatic
2. Recovery
3. Recovered