A concussion is a type of head injury that occurs when the brain is shaken or jolted inside the skull, leading to temporary or prolonged brain dysfunction. Concussions do not only occur in sports like football but are a common injury for those involved in car accidents, slip and falls, and workplace accidents. One of the most common symptoms of a concussion is a headache. If you have had a head injury and experience a headache that persists or worsens, it may be a sign of a concussion.
Another common symptom of a concussion is confusion or feeling “out of it.” You may struggle to concentrate or find yourself quickly forgetting things that just happened. Additionally, you may experience dizziness, lightheadedness, or a sensation like the room is spinning. You may also suffer from nausea, vomiting, and experience sensitivity to light and noise. These symptoms can range from mild to severe and vary from person to person.
Some concussion symptoms may not appear right after an accident but can rather take days or weeks to manifest. It is important to monitor yourself or injured loved ones closely after an accident. If any symptom of a concussion arises, seek medical attention immediately. Delaying medical attention could lead to more severe damage or prolonged injury.
Other symptoms of concussions include difficulty sleeping or excessive fatigue, mood changes and irritability, or even a person becoming less social. Depression also affects those who have suffered from multiple concussions.
Minor head injuries like a concussion can have long-term effects. For example, a concussion can result in post-concussion syndrome, which is a condition in which symptoms like headaches, dizziness, and cognitive difficulties persist for weeks or months after the initial injury. In some cases, post-concussion syndrome could last for years or even a lifetime, which means that being able to identify the signs and symptoms of a concussion is crucial.