Introduction
Concussions are one of the most common injuries in sports and can also occur as a result of any impact to the head. Say’s Dr. John Manzella, Concussions can range from mild to severe depending on how long it takes for symptoms to appear and what actions need to be taken by both you and your doctor. This article will explain what a concussion is, its causes and treatments so that you know what steps you need to take if this happens to you or someone else close to you.
What is a concussion?
A concussion is a mild traumatic brain injury that can occur in any sport or activity. It’s usually caused by a bump, blow, or jolt to the head that causes the brain to move rapidly inside the skull (that’s why it’s sometimes called “brain rattling”). The damage from a concussion occurs when the brain doesn’t have time to slow down before hitting against the inside of your skull.
The symptoms of a concussion vary from person to person and may include:
- Headaches and/or dizziness
- Nausea or vomiting
- Blurred vision or sensitivity to light/darkness
What are the causes of concussions?
Concussions are caused by a blow to the head, body or neck that causes the brain to move rapidly inside the skull. This can happen during motor vehicle accidents, falls, sports injuries and acts of violence such as assaults or military combat.
Concussions also can occur without an obvious blow to the head if you suffer sudden acceleration or deceleration (i.e., whiplash) while riding in a car or other vehicle such as a boat or airplane; fall down stairs; slip on ice; slip off an elevated surface like a balcony railing; land hard after jumping into water; collide with another person who is running towards you at full speed
How to treat a concussion
- Get medical attention. If you think you have a concussion, it’s important to see a doctor right away.
- Rest and sleep. When recovering from a concussion, rest is essential–you should avoid physical activity and other taxing mental tasks until your symptoms subside. Your body needs time to heal itself naturally before returning to normal activities such as exercising or driving.
- Avoid alcohol and drugs (including marijuana). These substances can make recovery from brain injuries more difficult because they interfere with how the brain heals itself after trauma; this includes any medication that might contain alcohol or other drugs like acetaminophen (Tylenol) or ibuprofen (Advil).
How long does it take to recover from a concussion?
The recovery time for a concussion varies. Some people recover quickly, while others take longer. The severity of the concussion also affects how long it takes to recover. A mild concussion may not require any treatment at all; however, if you have had one or more severe concussions in your lifetime and are experiencing symptoms such as headache or dizziness after an injury to the head, then seek medical attention immediately.
Regular exercise after a concussion is important to speed recovery.
Regular exercise after a concussion is important to speed recovery. Exercise can help with brain health, and it’s especially important for people who have had concussions.
Brain health benefits of exercise include:
- Increased blood flow to the brain (which helps remove toxins)
- Improved mood
- Better sleep quality and energy levels
Conclusion
Concussions are a serious injury, but they are also very common. They can occur at any age, and most people recover without any long-term effects. However, some people may be more likely to have persistent symptoms after a concussion than others. If you suspect someone has had a concussion or wants more information on how to treat one, it’s important that they see their doctor right away so they can get started on the right treatment plan as soon as possible!
