Warning Signs of a Concussion
Identifying a Concussion
Whether you've collided with a fellow athlete on the field or fallen and hit your head, you may have experienced a concussion following the accident. Because concussions have the potential to become more severe brain injuries is essential that you know the warning signs of this brain injury.
What is a Concussion?
A concussion is a type of brain injury characterized by a short period of impaired brain function. This happens when there is a direct blow to the head, or the head is jolted as a result of the body being hit, causing the brain to move rapidly back and forth.
Although concussions are considered mild brain injuries, they can become more severe and even life-threatening if left untreated.
Signs and Symptoms to Lookout For
According to the CDC, there are about 2.8 million traumatic brain injury-related emergency room visits each year. With such shockingly high statistics, it's essential that you know what signs and symptoms to look out for if you or someone around you experiencing an accident that involves hitting their head.
Signs and symptoms of a concussion typically include:
- Loss of consciousness.
- Trouble balancing.
- Forgetting events surrounding the injury.
- Delayed response time.
- Trouble concentrating.
- Difficulty multitasking.
- Forgetting instruction.
- Nausea or vomiting.
- Headache.
- Light-headedness.
- Light sensitivity.
- Sound sensitivity.
Signs of a More Severe Brain Injury
If you or someone you’re with is experiencing any of the following symptoms, it is essential that you dial 9-1-1 or visit an emergency room immediately:
- Seizure.
- Trouble waking up or staying awake.
- Feeling weak.
- Severe headache.
- Clear liquid coming from the nose or ears.
- Slurred speech.
- Worsening symptoms.