That’s why it’s especially important for everyone to know the signs of a concussion and be vigilant in looking out for them, especially when someone has experienced a blow to the head. Physical symptoms of a concussion include:
HeadacheFuzzy or blurred visionNausea or vomitingDizzinessSensitivity to noise or lightBalance problemsFeeling tired or having no energy
Cognitive symptoms of a concussion include:
Difficulty thinking clearlyFeeling slowed downDifficulty concentratingDifficulty remembering new informationBrain fog or grogginess
Emotional symptoms of a concussion include:
IrritabilitySadnessErratic emotionsNervousness or anxiety
Sleep symptoms of a concussion include:
Sleeping more or less than usualDifficulty falling asleepDaytime drowsiness
Contact your doctor or local emergency department immediately if you experience any of the following danger signs after a blow, bump, or jolt to the body or head:
A headache that gets worse and does not go away, perhaps even the worst headache of your lifeWeakness, numbness, or decreased coordinationRepeated vomiting or nauseaSlurred speech
If you’re caring for someone who you think might have a concussion, take them to the emergency room immediately if they:
Look very drowsy or cannot wake upHave one pupil larger than the otherHave seizures or convulsionsCannot recognize people or placesAre getting more confused, restless, or agitatedAre behaving unusuallyLose consciousness
Danger signs in children can include all the above, as well as refusal to nurse or eat and crying that won’t stop. Learn More About Concussion Symptoms
Interview A doctor will document the extent of any loss of consciousness or loss of memory leading up to the event, or loss of memory of the event or after the injury, as well as any other symptoms, such as headache, feeling dazed or confused, dizziness, or fatigue.Examination The doctor will look for any neurological signs and symptoms by testing strength, sensation, reflexes, coordination, balance, vision, hearing, mental status, nerve functions, and other functions to determine the severity of the brain injury.Brain imaging Sometimes brain imaging may be recommended for patients with symptoms of severe headaches, seizures, repeated vomiting, or symptoms that continue to worsen. A cranial computerized tomography (CT) scan can determine whether the injury is severe and has caused bleeding or swelling in the brain. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) can determine if the brain has undergone any changes and can help diagnose complications after a concussion. A normal CT or MRI does not rule out a concussion, though.Observation Some patients may need to be hospitalized overnight for observation following a concussion. It may also be possible to be observed at home. A caregiver should observe the affected person closely for at least 24 hours to make sure symptoms aren’t getting worse.
How quickly someone improves depends on many factors, including the severity of the concussion, their age, how healthy they were before the injury, and how well they care for themselves after the concussion. Learn More About Treatments for a Concussion These complications can include post-concussion syndrome, which is characterized by headaches and dizziness that will not go away; post-traumatic vertigo, or dizziness that accompanies movement. Learn More About the Possible Complications of Concussions In children age 17 and younger, there were 16,480 TBI-related hospitalizations and 2,476 TBI-related deaths in 2019. Learn More About Sleep Disorders and Brain Injury and How One Woman Deals With the Problem
Learn More About Sports and Concussions Fast action can lead to a proper diagnosis and treatment to help your child recover. Since concussions are unique to each individual, your child’s doctor will prescribe treatment based on specific symptoms. If the concussion is not severe enough to warrant a trip to the hospital, your child’s doctor will provide instructions for home care. Home care includes the following:
Physical rest until symptoms subsideMental rest and avoidance of mentally taxing activities until symptoms subsideEating well and avoiding caffeineAvoiding bright lights or loud noises, which can make symptoms worse
Note that there is no evidence to support waking a child every few hours when they are sleeping to check for symptoms. Also, children can usually return to their normal activities within a few weeks. It’s important to wait until their doctor gives the go ahead to do so, and they and should stop what they are doing if symptoms return. Learn More About Concussions in Children and How One Mom’s Swift Action Led to Her Daughter’s Speedy Recovery From a Concussion Learn More About Concussions by Taking Our Quiz
