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Writer's pictureVarshika Ram Prakash

Concussions: Understanding and Managing Head Injuries

Introduction 

A concussion is a type of mild traumatic brain injury (TBI) caused by a sudden blow, bump, or jolt to the head or body that disrupts normal brain function. Concussions are common in sports, falls, motor vehicle accidents, and workplace injuries. Despite being categorized as “mild,” a concussion can have serious effects if not properly managed. This article explores the causes, symptoms, diagnosis, management, and prevention of concussions.


4 types of symptoms/ signs to recognize an emergency

Concussion symptoms can vary widely and may not appear immediately. They are generally categorized into physical, cognitive, emotional, and sleep-related symptoms:

  1. Physical Symptoms:

    • Headache or pressure in the head.

    • Dizziness and balance issues.

    • Nausea or vomiting.

    • Sensitivity to light or noise.

    • Blurred or double vision.

  2. Cognitive Symptoms:

    • Confusion and disorientation.

    • Difficulty concentrating or remembering events before or after the injury.

    • Slowed thinking or feeling "foggy."

  3. Emotional Symptoms:

    • Irritability or mood swings.

    • Anxiety or sadness.

  4. Sleep-Related Symptoms:

    • Trouble falling asleep.

    • Sleeping more or less than usual.


Emergency response protocols

When a concussion is suspected given the symptoms, the following steps should be taken:

  1. Remove the Individual from Activity

    • Stop all physical and mental exertion immediately.

    • If the injury occurs during sports, remove the person from playing to prevent further harm.

  2. Perform a Primary Assessment

    • Check for life-threatening conditions like airway obstruction, breathing issues, or significant bleeding.

    • Stabilize the neck and head if a cervical spine injury is suspected.

  3. Monitor Symptoms

    • Evaluate the person’s level of consciousness using the Glasgow Coma Scale (GCS) by checking eye opening, verbal response, and motor response, with scores ranging from 3-15, where a higher score represents the better conscious level.

    • Monitor for changes in behavior, speech, and motor skills.

  4. Seek Professional Medical Help

    • Call emergency services (911) if symptoms worsen.

    • Ensure the person is transported safely to a medical facility for evaluation.

  5. Provide First Aid

    • Keep the person calm and still.

    • Avoid giving medications unless prescribed by a medical professional.

    • Do not allow the person to drive or return to strenuous activity.


Complications

If not properly managed, concussions can lead to:

  • Post-Concussion Syndrome: Persistent symptoms lasting weeks or months.

  • Second Impact Syndrome: A rare but fatal condition caused by a second concussion before the first has healed.

  • Chronic Traumatic Encephalopathy (CTE): A degenerative brain condition linked to repeated head injuries, particularly in athletes.


Preventing Future Concussions

Prevention strategies are critical to reducing the risk of concussions:

  • Use appropriate protective gear, such as helmets, during sports and high-risk activities.

  • Educate individuals on proper techniques to avoid head injuries in sports and at work.

  • Implement concussion awareness and response training in schools, workplaces, and athletic programs.


Conclusion

A concussion requires an effective emergency response to ensure the safety and well-being of the affected individual. Recognizing the signs, following established protocols, and seeking medical attention are crucial steps in mitigating the impact of this common injury. By prioritizing awareness, prevention, and immediate care, healthcare professionals and first responders can improve outcomes for individuals experiencing a concussion.


Sources

Broglio, Steven P., et al. "National Athletic Trainers' Association Position Statement: Management of Sport Concussion." Journal of Athletic Training, vol. 49, no. 2, 2014, pp. 245–265.

McCrory, Paul, et al. "Consensus Statement on Concussion in Sport—the 5th International Conference on Concussion in Sport Held in Berlin, October 2016." British Journal of Sports Medicine, vol. 51, no. 11, 2017, pp. 838–847.

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). "Heads Up: Concussion in Youth Sports." CDC.gov, 23 Mar. 2021, www.cdc.gov/headsup/youthsports/index.html.

Mayo Clinic Staff. "Concussion." Mayo Clinic, 22 Feb. 2023, www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/concussion/symptoms-causes/syc-20355594. Assessed and Endorsed by the MedReport Medical Review Board



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