What actually causes a concussion?
A concussion is a mild form of traumatic brain injury (TBI) caused by a bump, blow, or jolt to the head. Concussions can also occur from a fall or a blow to the body that causes the head to move rapidly back and forth. Doctors may describe these injuries as “mild” because concussions are usually not life-threatening.
What does a concussion do to your brain?
Concussions stretch and bruise nerves and blood vessels and cause chemical changes in your brain that result in a temporary loss of normal brain function. A single concussion usually doesn’t cause permanent damage to your brain. Multiple concussions over a lifetime may result in structural changes in your brain.
What happens during concussion?
A concussion is a traumatic brain injury that affects your brain function. Effects are usually temporary but can include headaches and problems with concentration, memory, balance and coordination. Concussions are usually caused by a blow to the head.
Do concussions go away on their own?
Now, weeks or months later, you’re having symptoms that may be caused by a concussion. The good news is that, in most people, these symptoms will likely go away on their own. Most people with a concussion recover fully, with no need for treatment.
Can brain heal itself after concussion?
During the first six months after a brain injury, the brain enters a heightened state of plasticity. This means that the brain will spontaneously repair itself, and therapy will have a visible impact. Therefore, you might make rapid progress in your recovery. However, after about six months, plasticity will decrease.
When is concussion serious?
Repeated vomiting or nausea, convulsions or seizures (shaking or twitching). Unusual behavior, increased confusion, restlessness, or agitation. Loss of consciousness (passed out/knocked out). Even a brief loss of consciousness should be taken seriously.
What a concussion feels like?
“Concussion patients often experience the full gamut of headaches, nausea, vomiting, confusion, ringing in the ears, dizziness, seeing stars or flashing lights, double vision, feeling dazed and being unaware of what’s going on.
Do I need to go to hospital for concussion?
Should I Go to the Hospital for a Concussion? In general, any head injury associated with loss of consciousness, seizures, prolonged confusion or amnesia, neck pain, vomiting or numbness or weakness in arms or legs should be transported to the emergency room in an ambulance right away.
How does a concussion feel?
Balance problems or dizziness, or double or blurry vision. Bothered by light or noise. Feeling sluggish, hazy, foggy, or groggy. Confusion, or concentration or memory problems.
What medicine can I take with a concussion?
Rest. After a concussion,the best treatment is physical and mental rest for one or two days.
What’s the difference between a concussion and a brain injury?
Sorting Out the Confusion. A traumatic brain injury is an injury that results in physical trauma to the brain.
Should I see a doctor for concussion?
When to See a Neurologist for Concussion Symptoms When concussion symptoms persist for more than six weeks, the patient should seek evaluation and possible treatment for post-concussion syndrome . Patients have the chance to be evaluated by a neurologist, neurosurgeon, or a neuropsychologist depending on need.
What does concussion stand for?
The word comes from the Latin concutere, which means “to shake violently.” A concussion is most often caused by a sudden direct blow or bump to the head. According to the CDC, between 2001 and 2009, an estimated 173,285 people under age 19 were treated in hospital emergency rooms for concussions related to sports and recreation activities.