subject: Symptoms Of Concussion - Headache, Confusion, Loss Of Consciousness [print this page] Symptoms Of Concussion - Headache, Confusion, Loss Of Consciousness
Concussion signs and symptoms are usually connected with blacking out or a loss of consciousness. However, quite a few people who have a concussion do not lose consciousness. A Concussion is a ailment that results because of a blow, fall, or a violent shaking which leads to injury to the brain. Signs will vary from mild to severe. This post shares the medical symptoms affiliated with a concussion and the correct steps required to treat the ailment.
Concussion Symptoms And Causes
Signs can be quite mild and in some instances an individual will not even be aware he or she had a concussion. Noticeable signs will vary from mild to severe and may include:
Drowsiness
Disorientation, confusion, or the inability to think straight
Head ache
Loss of consciousness (short or long-term)
Memory lapse or amnesia, especially for eventswhich happened prior to the injury or immediately after the injury
Perception of having lost time
Nausea and vomiting (possible)
Blurry vision or seeing flashes of light
Irritability
Some symptoms may indicate an emergency. If the following signs or symptoms are existing the person needs immediate healthcare attention. It is common for a concussion to have associated damage to the neck or spine. Do not move the victim of a head injury if it can be avoided. Emergency signs and symptoms include:
Prolonged loss of alertness or consciousness
Convulsions or seizures
Muscle weakness on one of both sides of the body
Prolonged confusion
Repetitive vomiting
Unequal pupil size or unusual eye movements
Trouble walking
If an individual has a loss of consciousness, the length of time he or she remains unconscious may indicate the severity of the concussion.
Concussions are quite common and can be brought about by a fall, blow to the head, violent shaking, or rapid forward and backward motion of the head (Whiplash). Participating in sports events and having a car accident can increase the risk of sustaining a concussion.
Concussion Diagnosis And Treatment
Diagnosis of a concussion will be being founded on observation of the aforementioned signs and symptoms following trauma to the head and possibly an evaluation by a physician. The evaluation may incorporate a physical examination , x-rays, and a CT scan or MRI of the head or neck. Additional test may be requested including an EEG (brain wave test) if seizures are involved, blood tests or analysis of cerebrospinal fluids.
Treatment can depend on the extend of the damage. First aid may be required if the injury is recent. Do not attempt to move an affected person if neck or spine damage is suspected. Have the patient lie down quietly. A cold compress may be employed to relieve pain present in the head or neck. The individual should be observed (at a hospital if the situation is serious) for the very least 24 hours following injury.
Document and report any of the following signs to medical practitioner immediately: vomiting, difficulty waking, paralysis, fever, convulsions, extreme and prolonged headache, persistent disorientation.
If a head injury is sustained in the course of a sports activity, a trained professional has to clear the individual before he or she is able to go back to taking part in sports.
If a child, teen, or young adult experiences a concussion, the person may have to quit taking part in sports for a period of time of 3 or more months. There is an elevated chance of serious health complications, if the young person suffers one more concussion prior to fully recovering from the prior incident.
Do not use aspirin, ibuprofen (i.e. Motrin or Advil), naproxen, or other comparable drugs to relieve headaches or pain. You may use acetaminophen (i.e. Tylenol).
Following a concussion, eat a light diet plan and participate in only light activities, stay away from performing exercises, lifting weights or lifting heavy objects.
In uncomplicated concussions, a full recovery is expected. Some concussion signs such as dizziness, memory loss, troubles thinking, irritability, headaches, and sleep disruption can continue to be present for weeks or months following the injury.
