Signs and Symptoms of a Concussion
By
“
What is a Concussion?
The quick answer is a concussion is a mild traumatic brain injury (TBI) caused by a bump, jolt, blow to the head. Concussions can also occur from a fall or a blow to the body, causing the head to move forcefully back and forth. A concussion’s effects can vary greatly between individuals, and many concussions go undiagnosed and unreported due to the widespread symptoms and severities.
Concussions can affect school, work, sports, and social life and should never be taken lightly. If left untreated, concussions can result in further injury or even death.
Signs and symptoms of a concussion
What are the Signs and Symptoms of a Concussion?
Not every head impact causes a concussion, and not all concussions are the same. Listed below are signs of a concussion but keep in mind that an individual may not experience all of these symptoms. How to tell if you have a concussion, read below.
If your loved one’s symptoms worsen over time or notice any of the “Red Flags” signs, please immediately seek emergency care.
Headaches and nausea are symptoms of a concussion.
Physical Signs of a Concussion:
- Headache or “pressure” in the head
- Nausea or vomiting
- Dizziness
- Fatigued or feeling tired
- Blurred vision
- Sensitivity to light or noise
- Poor balance/coordination
- Numbness or tingling
- Drowsiness
- Difficulty falling asleep
- Difficulty concentrating or remembering
- Feeling “slowed down”
- Feeling hazy, sluggish, or in a fog
- Delayed response to questions
Emotional Signs of a Concussion*:
- Irritable
- Sad
- Nervous
- More emotional than usual
- “Don’t feel right”
Red Flags*:
- Uneven pupils
- Slurred speech
- Worsen headache
- Increased confusion
- Cannot awaken from sleep
- Convulsions or seizures
- Cannot recognize places or people
- Repeated vomiting
- Loss of consciousness
How Long is the Recovery After Getting a Concussion?
image of a brain
The quick answer is that recovery after a concussion can take on average anywhere from a few days to several months. Individuals suspected of having a concussion should never return to sports or recreation activities until a physician has seen him/her. Since all concussions are different, the healing phase or timeline varies between individuals. Concussions are not like other injuries where clinicians can take a picture of the injury to determine the severity and the estimated healing time. Rest and monitoring symptoms daily will help determine whether an individual’s concussion is getting better or if further care is needed. Once the individual no longer has signs of a concussion, also known as asymptomatic, she will need to see a physician before returning to normal activities to ensure the brain has properly healed.
During the healing phase, it is crucial the individual remains hydrated and eliminates any brain-stimulating activities like watching television, playing video games, using cell phones or computers for long periods, or reading a book. It is also important not to take ibuprofen during this phase. Ibuprofen is a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug that can prolong healing and mask any lingering signs of a concussion.
How Can Physical Therapy Help With Concussion Recovery?
The quick answer is that physical therapy can help with balance and vestibular symptoms after a concussion. Your therapist will also educate you on the importance of limiting any activity following a concussion until it is safe to resume these activities. This rest period is important because it allows the brain to heal and for symptoms to subside as quickly as possible. After the required rest period, muscle weakness and decreased activity tolerance are common. Physical Therapy can help to restore your strength and endurance without exacerbating concussion symptoms. Your Physical Therapist will construct an exercise program and monitor your symptoms. Read this ARTICLE to see how Physical Therapy can help with a concussion.
Who Should I See if I Have a Concussion?
JOI team discussing a treatment plan for concussion recovery
Jacksonville Orthopedic Institute is equipped with Orthopedic Physicians and Certified Athletic Trainers trained in recognizing concussions, providing treatment, and assisting with the gradual transition back to work, school, and sports. Michael Yorio, M.D., is board-certified in Internal Medicine and has a Certificate of Added Qualification in Sports Medicine and is the Internal Medicine Team Physician for the Jacksonville Jaguars. Dr. Yorio performs detailed assessments to determine the severity and grades of concussion. Visit JOI Concussion Center HERE.
To schedule an appointment, call (904) JOI-2000 or click the appointment button below:
”