Concussion Awareness

Understanding Concussions: Signs, Symptoms, and Prevention Tips

As school sports kick into full swing, it’s a crucial time to revisit the signs and symptoms of concussions. While athletes are often at higher risk for these injuries, concussions can happen to anyone, regardless of age or activity level.

What is a Concussion?

A concussion is a type of mild traumatic brain injury (TBI) caused by a bump, blow to the head, fall, or sudden jostling of the torso. Although concussions are often labeled as “mild,” they should be taken seriously due to potential long-term effects. If someone experiences a head injury, they should seek medical attention within 1 to 2 days, even if it’s not an emergency situation.

Recognizing the symptoms of a concussion is essential for a timely response. Symptoms can show up right after the injury or take a few days to appear. Here’s a breakdown:

  • Signs (what you might observe in someone else):
    • Dazed or stunned appearance
    • Behavioral or personality changes
    • Confusion, clumsiness, or forgetfulness
    • Loss of consciousness, even briefly
    • Slow responses or repeated questions
  • Symptoms (what the injured person might feel):
    • Headache, nausea, or vomiting
    • Balance problems or changes in vision
    • Sensitivity to light or noise
    • Fatigue, irritability, or nervousness
    • Difficulty concentrating or feeling “off” or “in a fog”

In children, who may struggle to express these symptoms, watch for unusual statements like “not feeling right” or “feeling weird” after a fall or bump to the head.

Symptoms Requiring Immediate Attention

According to the CDC, go straight to the emergency room if any of the following occur:

  • Unequal pupil size
  • Severe drowsiness or trouble waking up
  • Worsening headache that doesn’t subside
  • Slurred speech, weakness, or seizures
  • Repeated vomiting, unusual behavior, or loss of consciousness.

Preventions in Sports

While concussions can’t always be avoided, wearing the right protective gear, like helmets, is essential in sports. Helmets reduce the risk but are not “concussion-proof,” so close supervision and awareness are key in athletic settings.

Remember, if a head injury occurs, watch for signs and symptoms, seek medical help when needed, and ensure the injured person is under supervision until they’re cleared by a medical professional.

Sources

  1. Concussion – Symptoms and causes. (2022, February 17). Mayo Clinic. https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/concussion/symptoms-causes/syc-20355594What Is a Concussion? | HEADS UP | CDC Injury Center. Retrieved October 27, 2022, from CDC
  2. What Is a Concussion? | HEADS UP | CDC Injury Center. (n.d.). Retrieved October 27, 2022, from https://www.cdc.gov/headsup/basics/concussion_whatis.html