What is a Concussion?

A concussion is a type of traumatic brain injury (TBI) that occurs when the brain experiences a sudden and forceful impact or movement within the skull. It can result from a blow to the head, a jolt, or a violent shaking of the body. Concussions are commonly associated with sports-related injuries, but they can also happen due to falls, motor vehicle accidents, or other traumatic incidents.

The impact or movement of the brain within the skull during a concussion can disrupt its normal functioning. This disruption can lead to various physical, cognitive, emotional, and sleep-related symptoms. Common symptoms of a concussion include headache, dizziness, confusion, memory problems, difficulty concentrating, sensitivity to light or noise, fatigue, irritability, and changes in sleep patterns.

It's important to note that concussions may not always result in loss of consciousness. In fact, most concussions occur without a person losing consciousness. Additionally, the symptoms of a concussion may not always be immediately apparent, and they can vary in severity and duration for different individuals.

Prompt recognition, evaluation, and appropriate management of concussions are crucial for ensuring the best possible outcomes. If a concussion is suspected, medical attention should be sought to assess the severity of the injury, provide appropriate care, and guide the individual through the recovery process. Rest, gradual return to activity, and following healthcare professionals' recommendations are typically key components of concussion management.

Common Symptoms

We expect a myriad of symptoms associated with a concussion injury. It is important to understand that every concussion is unique, and each person may have different symptoms and severity. If you believe you’ve suffered a concussion, you should monitor your symptoms over the next 24-48 hours for any significant changes and watch for “red flags.”

No Need To:

  • Check the eyes with a light

  • Wake up every hour

  • Stay in bed or a dark room

Concussion Red Flags and when to seek care

Avoid:

  • Drinking alcohol

  • Driving

  • Strenuous physical activity, such as running, weightlifting, sports, heavy yard work

  • Taking NSIADs for your headache, such as Advil, Aleve, Aspirin, etc.

While most concussions don’t require emergency attention, some situations do need immediate care. Call 9-1-1 or seek emergency medical attention if you experience any of the following red flag symptoms. They could indicate a more serious injury.

  • Prolonged Loss of consciousness

  • Significant Headache (10 out of 10 pain)

  • Repeated vomiting (more than 2x)

  • Slurred speech

  • Seizures

  • Lack of Coordination

  • Stumbling / Loss of Balance

  • Numbness or weakness in the arms or legs

  • Inability to recognize people or places

  • Inability to be awakened

How to classify a concussion

We no longer grade concussions, such as a mild, moderate, or severe concussion. You either have a concussion or you don’t. But we do grade Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBI), and a concussion is a mild TBI (mTBI). Even though it is a mTBI many people still suffer with significant symptoms that can progress to be chronic. So it is very important to correctly classify the concussion in order to effectively treat the injury.

How Long Does It Take To Recover From A Concussion?

The recovery time for a concussion can vary from person to person and depends on several factors, including the severity of the concussion and individual differences in healing. In general, most people recover from a concussion within a few weeks. However, some individuals may experience symptoms for a longer period, and in rare cases, symptoms can persist for months or even longer. One of the best predictors of recovery time continues to be the severity level of an individuals initial concussion symptoms. The current evidence is indicating that a normal recovery time is about 2-4 weeks for a full physiologic recovery from a concussion for individuals who are post-puberty, and around 4 weeks for those that are pre-puberty.

It's important to note that recovery from a concussion involves a gradual process, and it's essential to allow the brain enough time to heal fully before resuming normal activities, especially those that involve physical contact. Rest and avoiding activities that can worsen symptoms are typically recommended during the initial stages of recovery. Once symptoms begin to improve, a gradual return to normal activities, such as work, school, and exercise, can be initiated under the guidance of a healthcare professional.

If you or someone you know has sustained a concussion, it's crucial to seek medical attention for an accurate diagnosis, appropriate management, and guidance on the recovery process. A healthcare professional experienced in concussion management can provide personalized recommendations based on the specific circumstances.