Understanding Concussions: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment
A concussion, also known as a mild traumatic brain injury, is a temporary disturbance in brain function caused by a hit, bump, or blow to the head or body. This impact causes the brain to accelerate and decelerate inside the skull, leading to a functional injury. Since concussions aren’t visible on routine X-rays, CT scans, or MRIs, recognising the signs and symptoms is crucial.
Recognizing Concussion Signs
Concussion signs are observable by others, while symptoms are felt by the individual. Common signs include:
- Loss of Consciousness (LOC): Often less than 10% of concussion cases.
- Fencing Response: Rigid arms, indicating LOC and brainstem involvement.
- Rag-doll Sign: Limpness with no head protection during a fall.
- Clutching the Head: After a tackle or fall.
- Lack of Balance or Coordination: Stumbling after a hit.
Identifying Concussion Symptoms
Concussion symptoms vary, but if you experience any of the following after a significant hit, a concussion should be suspected:
Physical Symptoms:
- Headache
- Neck pain
- Sensitivity to light/noise
- Visual problems
- Dizziness
- Balance issues
- Nausea/Vomiting
Cognitive Symptoms:
- Memory issues
- Difficulty concentrating
- Confusion
- Feeling slowed down
- Feeling “in a fog”
- Trouble thinking clearly
Emotional Symptoms:
- Anxiety
- Nervousness
- Depression
- Sadness
- Irritability
- Increased emotionality
Sleep Symptoms:
- Fatigue
- Low energy
- Changes in sleep patterns
- Difficulty falling asleep
When to Suspect a Concussion
If a significant blow to the head or body occurs and one or more symptoms are present, suspect a concussion. Athletes should be removed from play immediately and not return until assessed by a healthcare professional trained in concussion management. Continuing to play can increase the risk of prolonged symptoms or further injury.
Concussion Duration and Recovery
Most people feel symptomatically recovered within 7-10 days, but full brain recovery may take 22-45 days. During this vulnerable period, repeat injuries can lead to more severe brain injuries.
Effective Concussion Treatments
Research shows that prolonged rest isn’t effective. The top evidence-based treatments include:
- Exercise Therapy: Guided by healthcare practitioners.
- Manual Therapy and Neck Rehab
- Diet/Nutritional Changes
- Vestibular and Visual Rehab
- Education and Reassurance
Understanding Post-Concussion Syndrome
Post-concussion syndrome occurs when symptoms persist beyond two weeks in adults and four weeks in children, affecting 15-30% of individuals. It can manifest in various areas:
- Blood Flow: Reduced flow to the brain.
- Metabolic/Inflammatory/Hormonal: Often diet-related.
- Visual/Vestibular Systems: Interconnected functions.
- Neck (Cervical Spine): Integrated with visual and vestibular systems.
- Psychological: Overlaps with mental health conditions.
Risk factors for prolonged recovery include a history of concussions, anxiety, stress, age, sex, and misinformation.
Seeking Help
If experiencing ongoing issues, consult your doctor or contact Whittlesea Physiotherapy and Clinical Pilates, a member of the Complete Concussion Management Inc. (CCMI) Partnership Program. They offer evidence-based concussion care. Phone: (03) 9716 2250 Email: [email protected]