Concussions 101: Understanding the Basics

A concussion is a type of traumatic brain injury (TBI) caused by a blow or jolt to the head or by a hit to the body that causes the head and brain to move rapidly back and forth. This sudden movement can cause the brain to bounce or twist within the skull, stretching and damaging brain cells. Understanding the basics of concussions can help individuals recognize symptoms, seek appropriate treatment, and prevent further injury.

Symptoms of a Concussion

Symptoms of a concussion can vary widely from person to person, and they may not appear immediately after the injury. Some common symptoms include:

• Headache

• Dizziness or balance problems

• Nausea or vomiting

• Confusion or feeling dazed

• Memory problems or difficulty concentrating

• Sensitivity to light and noise

• Blurred or double vision

• Fatigue or feeling sluggish

• Changes in mood or behavior (e.g., irritability, sadness, anxiety)

Red Flags: When to Seek Immediate Medical Attention

While many concussion symptoms are mild and resolve with rest, certain signs indicate a more serious injury requiring immediate medical attention. The red flags to immediately see an emergency room physician include:

• Loss of consciousness

• Repeated vomiting

• Worsening headache that won't go away

• Seizures

• Slurred speech

• Weakness or numbness in arms or legs

• Unequal pupil size

• Clear fluid draining from the nose or ears

• Increasing confusion, restlessness, or agitation

  
  

Causes of Concussions

Concussions can result from a variety of incidents, including:

• Sports injuries (e.g., football, hockey, soccer)

• Falls

• Car accidents

• Assaults

• Workplace accidents

Treatment for Concussions

Treatment for a concussion primarily involves physical and cognitive rest. This means avoiding activities that require physical exertion or mental concentration until symptoms subside. Other treatment recommendations may include:

• Pain relievers (as directed by a healthcare professional)

• Avoiding alcohol

• Gradual return to activity under medical supervision

• Rehabilitation therapies (e.g., Chiropractic care, physical therapy, occupational therapy, speech therapy) if needed

Who to See for a Concussion

If you suspect you or someone else has a concussion, it's crucial to seek medical attention. Professionals who can diagnose and manage concussions include:

• Emergency room physicians

• Primary care physicians

• Neurologists

• Sports medicine doctors

• Athletic trainers

What can Sycamore Integrated Health do if you have been diagnosed with a concussion?

If you have been recently diagnosed with a concussion and have waited at least 5 days since the symptoms have subsided, come see us for care. We can help the healing process once the nervous system has healed enough to tolerate treatment. Things that Sycamore Integrated Health can do is chiropractic care, rehab therapy, balance exercises, and red light laser therapy. 

In the meantime, it is good to get physical rest and “brain rest”. This means decreasing brain stimulation input. So stay off phones and tvs, listen to classical music, and try to stay and rest in a dark, quiet room.