Concussions are often referred to as an ‘invisible injury’ because their symptoms aren’t always easy to recognize, and even MRI imaging isn’t perfect at identifying a concussion.
A concussion is a traumatic brain injury (TBI) caused when the brain is jolted or shaken inside the skull, which can cause damage to blood vessels in the brain or even injury to the brain tissue itself. All it takes is a hard tumble on the basketball court, football field, or any blow to the head or the body. You don’t necessarily have to hit your head to suffer a concussion. For example, when your body stops suddenly due to a hard tackle or even a car accident, it can cause whiplash and a concussion. Take me to the Mayo Clinic to learn more about TBIs: https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/traumatic-brain-injury/symptoms-causes/syc-20378557.
Concussions Can Affect Anyone:
- Athletes playing contact sports – or non-contact sports (such as cycling or skateboarding)
- Children who experience playground injuries or collisions
- Older adults who are at risk of falling
- First responders and construction workers
- Motor vehicle or other accidents can result in concussions
Symptoms can vary and may not always appear immediately. Concussion symptoms can be physical, cognitive, emotional, or sleep-related. Should any of these symptoms appear following a head injury, it’s important to seek medical attention to rule out more severe conditions, receive appropriate care, and formulate a recovery plan.
Recognizing the Signs and Symptoms of Concussion:
Physical Symptoms
- Headache or pressure in the head
- Queasiness or vomiting
- Dizziness or problems with balance
- Sensitivity to light or sound
- Blurred vision or seeing stars
- Fatigue or feeling sluggish
Cognitive Symptoms
- Confusion or feeling mentally foggy
- Difficulty concentrating or memory problems
- Slowed thinking or reaction time
Emotional Symptoms
- Irritability, moodiness, sadness, or nervousness
- Sadness or emotional sensitivity
- Nervousness or anxiety
Sleep-Related Symptoms
- Sleep disturbances, such as sleeping more or less than usual or difficulty falling asleep
Anyone with potential concussion warning signs should seek medical assistance as quickly as possible. Athletes coaches, parents, and healthcare providers should be current on concussions. If you are not comfortable dealing with a concussion yourself, have a concussion plan in place so that you know who to ask for help if someone shows warning signs.
The Importance of an Integrated Healthcare Team
In all cases, it is important to have a healthcare team working together to get you back to your daily routine safely and with an eye on your long-term health. A physician can provide a concussion diagnosis and manage and evaluate your condition to provide medical clearance.
Healthcare providers such as chiropractors can help you manage headaches or back and muscle pain you may have as a result of your concussion. It’s important to remember that a concussion may also have affected your neck, shoulder, or spine – not just your head. Your Chiropractor may also suggest additional natural health care services such as massage therapy, lymphatic therapy, or acupuncture to help with symptoms. Trust your Chiropractor to have your back.
Education, encouragement, and a commitment to getting you back to your daily activities as soon as it is safe and appropriate are some of the best-known strategies to help overcome many of the adverse outcomes of concussion. That takes a committed approach from the right healthcare team, family, and friends.