Concussion 101: The Causes And Symptoms

Concussion 101 The Causes And Symptoms

If your children play sports or you are an athlete, you must understand what a concussion is. A concussion is a form of Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) caused by a blow or bump to the head. Check out boxing if you want a clear picture of a blow to the head. The impact of the blow can cause the brain to bounce within the skull. In normal anatomy, the brain is enclosed and protected by the skull, which forms a protective barrier against external impact. The meninges and the cerebrospinal fluid keep the brain suspended within the skull. However, a sudden and forceful effect, such as a blunt force to the head, can result in the brain bouncing or being displaced within the skull. Concussions can be classified based on severity, from the mildest (Grade 1) to the most severe forms (Grade 3). This article will discuss recognising, diagnosing, treating, and preventing concussions.

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Common Causes Of Concussion

Sports Injuries

Concussion is more common in high-contact sports such as boxing, wrestling, football, and rugby. However, it is not limited to these activities; it is sometimes common in sports that require less contact, such as basketball, golf, or volleyball. 2. Falls Children and elderly adults fall into this category. Children love to play around and often throw caution to the wind. Older adults also fall into this category, as ageing causes the bones to be more fragile, making them more prone to falls. 3. Car Accidents In some car accidents, the force of impact can lead to significant head trauma or injury, thereby causing concussions. 4. Assaults and Physical Fights Domestic abuse or physical violence, especially those that involve the head, can lead to concussions. Partners in abusive relationships have higher chances of getting a concussion during a fight.

How to recognise the symptoms of concussions

Recognising the symptoms is key to diagnosis, treatment, and recovery. There are two major types of symptoms.

Immediate Symptoms

If you’ve been hit on your head and you notice you have headaches, balance issues, or you suddenly become confused, then you are experiencing the immediate symptoms of concussion. Others include nausea, sensitivity to light or noise and blurred vision. 2. Delayed Symptoms In the case of delayed symptoms, individuals may experience the symptoms hours or days (4 days) after the injury. Some of the symptoms include depression, mood swings, memory problems, lack of concentration and inability to sleep. Note: In severe cases, symptoms such as persistent headache, seizures, prolonged loss of consciousness, and continuous vomiting are indicative of TBI or a brain injury.

Diagnosing Concussion

The diagnosis of concussions requires a holistic approach, which involves checking balance and vision. The Balance Error Scoring System is one of the best methods to detect a concussion accurately. Other forms include physical examinations, imaging tests, brain trauma indicator blood tests, and neurophysical examinations. These help detect the stage, type, and extent of concussion.

Treatment and Recovery

Rest and Gradual RehabilitationRest is the most critical factor for a full recovery. To avoid aggravating the symptoms, refrain from all physical and mental activities. They should only be introduced at the doctor’s instructions.

2. Medication There are no direct medications that can treat concussions; however, they can be treated symptomatically. For instance, pain relievers can be given for headaches, antiemetic drugs to stop vomiting, and so on. Following the doctor’s instructions and medication is important for the best result. N.B.: Aspirin should be avoided as it can increase intracranial pressure, predisposing the brain to more bleeding risks. 3. Return-to-Play Protocols Return-to-play protocols are important for athletes and sportspeople. Injured players should be given a long time off the field before they can return. Also, before they can be allowed back onto the field, they must be cleared for action by a certified medical practitioner.

Preventing Concussion

Like the proverb, “Prevention is better than cure.” Prevention is critical, especially in certain activities where the chances of concussion are high. Here are some effective preventive methods.

Practice Safe Sports Techniques

In high-contact sports such as boxing, football, and wrestling, coaches, referees, managers, and players should be adequately trained in effective, safe techniques to minimise the risk of blows to the head or falls during any sporting activity. 2. Education and Awareness The public should be provided with continuous education and articles such as this. This will help them become knowledgeable about the dangers of concussions and enlighten them on the symptoms of concussions so that they can take prompt action when necessary. 3. Use Protective Gear Protective gear such as helmets is critical in sports and every other activity with a high risk of brain injury. To reduce the likelihood of brain injury, ensure that the helmet is well-fitted. READ ALSO: Chia Seeds And Women’s Health

Conclusion

Concussions require immediate medical attention, and they are not injuries you should keep to yourself. Pay close attention to your children and older adults in your home as a parent. Once you notice any of the above symptoms, you should not hesitate to seek medical attention. Sports athletes and coaches must understand the symptoms of concussion and the impact as it will help them be more careful during sporting activities. While most people recover from concussions, a few may be faced with the long-term effects of concussions, and in severe cases, it could lead to death. As writers, we will continue to educate readers about concussions and create more awareness. By doing this, we can protect brain health and reduce the risk of concussions happening in the first place.