What is a concussion?
A “concussion” is the medical word for a mild traumatic brain injury. Concussions can happen after hitting your head or by a hit to the body that causes a rapid movement of the head and brain.
Don’t be fooled – Even though we call them “mild” traumatic brain injuries, they can still cause major health problems and should be taken seriously.
Is it true that if you didn’t get knocked, then it’s not a concussion?
Nope! Some concussions cause you to lose consciousness (“knock you out”) but most do not.
What does it feel like to have a concussion?
Common symptoms are headache, fatigue, loss of memory about the injury that caused the concussion, and confusion or brain fog. Concussions can also cause trouble with balance, dizziness, nausea, trouble paying attention, mood or behavior changes, and sensitivity to light or noise, among other symptoms.
Do the symptoms start right away?
Not necessarily. Some people feel symptoms immediately, but symptoms may take up to a day to appear.
How do you treat concussions?
Most concussions get better on their own with rest, but it is SUPER important to prevent any more injuries while a concussion is healing because getting a second injury while the brain is still healing can cause serious damage and lead to a coma or even death.
This means that both physical rest AND mental rest (meaning limiting TV, texting, social media, doing homework, social interaction, and anything else that requires a lot of concentration) are important. Usually after 1-2 days of rest, most students are ready to go back to school after a concussion, and back to normal sports participation within 4 weeks.
What are some danger signs that mean I should go to the ER?
Headaches that worsen and do not go away, weakness, numbness, repeated vomiting or nausea, slurred speech, inability to wake up excessive drowsiness, seizures, increased confusion or agitation, or decreased coordination.
Do you think you or your child might have a concussion?
Please call us at the Quincy Student Health and Wellness Center at (509) 787-8943 if you have any questions or would like to schedule an appointment. We are here to help!