Head injury and concussion: 10 top tips
In this article, we will discuss head injury and concussion, and provide 10 top tips.
1. What is concussion?
A concussion is a sudden but short-lived loss of mental function. They are due to a traumatic brain injury (TBI ) caused by a bump, blow, or jolt to the head; or a hit to the body that causes the head and brain to move rapidly back and forth.
Some concussions cause you to lose consciousness, but most do not.
2. The word ‘concussion’
It comes from the Latin concutere, which means ‘to shake violently’.
3. How is the brain damaged in concussion?
It is not entirely known.
The sudden movement causes the brain to bounce around or twist in the skull, and this somehow causes chemical changes in the brain – damaging brain cells, in the short and long term.
4. Causes of concussion
Boxing is not the only cause of concussion. It is an issue with other sports like rugby, football and cycling. But more are due to road traffic accidents and falls.
5. Investigation in concussion
Usually a CT of the brain will be normal after a concussion.
6. Effects of concussion
Effects are usually temporary but can include headaches and problems with concentration, memory loss, balance and coordination. Physical symptoms can also occur. These include:
- Ringing in the ears
- Nausea and vomiting
- Tiredness or drowsiness
- Blurry vision.
Concussion symptoms usually appear within minutes of the head injury. However, some symptoms may take several hours to appear.
7. Treatment of concussion
Symptoms usually resolve within 14 to 21 days, but can go on for 6 weeks. Either way, mental and physical rest is required until symptoms are completely resolved, with a gradual return to activity.
8. Outcome of concussion
Most people recover fully after a concussion. But a minority have long term problems.
Long term brain problems
It is thought that repeated episodes of concussion can cause long-term problems with mental ability and trigger dementia. This type of dementia is known as chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE). This a controversial area where a lot of research is focussed at present.
Concussion is serious
Doctors may describe a concussion as a ‘mild brain injury’ because it is usually not life-threatening. Even so, the effects of a concussion can be serious. And if repeated, they can have long-term effects.
9. Sports concussion protocols
Many sports have a concussion protocol like this one from World Rugby. These are controversial and many doctors (including CKDEx ones) think these are inadequate, as they often facilitate a return to playing within a week.
10. Should I return to sport?
Yes/no. If athletes return to sport or rigorous activity early, especially while signs or symptoms of a concussion are still present, they will risk further concussion. When you are given the all clear by a doctor, you can return to the sport. But you may need to be patient.
Summary
We have described head injury and concussion, and provided 10 top tips. We hope you understand it better now.
Last Reviewed on 3 May 2024