Concussions are a type of traumatic brain injury caused by impact on the head. They can range from mild to severe and can disrupt the way the brain normally functions.
Knowing the signs of concussion is important, as early detection can prevent further injury.
Physical symptoms
Some common physical signs of concussion include headache, nausea, vomiting, balance problems, dizziness, blurred vision, sensitivity to light or noise and feeling sluggish or foggy. You may also experience memory problems or feel confused. Many people assume that you must lose consciousness to have a concussion, but many incidents involve no loss of consciousness at all.
Cognitive and emotional changes
In addition to physical symptoms, concussions often cause cognitive and emotional changes. These may include difficulty thinking, concentrating or remembering new information. You may feel more irritable, sad, nervous or anxious than usual. Sleep disturbances are also common.
Signs that you need care
If you experience any signs of concussion after a head injury, seek a healthcare evaluation as soon as possible. Symptoms may appear right away or take hours or days to develop. Even if you feel better quickly, see a doctor to make sure it is safe to resume normal activities such as work, school and sports. It also provides you with documentation for a personal injury claim.
Some of the signs of concussions are mild and easy to overlook. Pay careful attention to how you feel following any injury where you hit your head. The sooner you seek medical attention, the better your chances of a full recovery.
