A concussion can happen to anyone and it can happen at any time. A concussion occurs when you have an accident and your brain is forced against your skull. This can cause temporary distortion to your brain function.
Your rain is usually surrounded by a special fluid, known as cerebrospinal fluid. This protects the brain from hitting the hard inside of your skull. However, when you suffer an accident, such as a heavy fall, sports injury, or a car accident, your brain flies around in your head rapidly and the fluid may to be able to protect it properly. The result is the brain hits your interior walls and brain cells are damaged.
Common signs of concussion include:
- Headaches
- Nausea
- Confusion
- Vision issues
- Tiredness
- Irritability
- Foggy brain
It’s important to note that the symptoms of concussion usually appear within a few minutes of the event. In some cases, it can take several hours for the symptoms to appear and you may even find they change as you use your brain more.
Table of Contents
Getting Expert Help
If someone has a concussion they need to be monitored. In cases of a mild concussion, they will simply heal by themselves. However, if you experience any of the following, you’ll need to get emergency medical assistance. A reputable neurosurgeon will be able to investigate and provide you with a complete picture of the issue.
- Headache that gets worse
- Loss of consciousness for more than a minute
- Clear discharge from nose or ears
- Slurred speech
- Difficulty walking or staying awake
- Numbness, particularly in arms or legs
- Severe dizziness
Recovering From A Concussion
If you have sought medical advice they will be able to assess your condition and help you deal with any issues and questions you have.
In most cases the recovery process is straightforward. To be completed recovered takes 7-14 days although this will depend on the seriousness of your concussion and your current health level.
Anyone who has suffered a concussion should avoid sport for at least 7 days from the injury.
There are two distinct phases of concussion recovery:
-
Acute
The acute phase is when the injury has just happened. This is when you will experience the symptoms described above. As mentioned, these can last for up to 14 days.
During this period it is important to physically and mentally rest. However, it is also important not to switch off mentally completed, this delays healing time. Instead, undertake puzzles and work for short periods with long breaks between.
It’s a good idea to avoid electronics and loud music.
-
Recovery
Once the symptoms of concussion have passed you will have moved into the recovery stage. This is when you can start to return to your normal life. However, it is important not to strain yourself physically or mentally. That’s why you should take it slowly and be aware that you may still get confused easily or find it harder to solve issues than you usually do.
Most people with concussions make a full recovery in a short space of time. But, it is still important to get checked out by a medical professional. It will help to ensure there are no long term effects.
