5 Signs You Might Have a Concussion

The word concussion refers to a mild traumatic brain injury (mTBI) that often occurs as a result of an impact to the head. Additionally, a concussion can also be the result of a whiplash type of injury or accident, where the brain and head are shaken quickly back and forth.

In most cases, concussions are not life-threatening. However, they can cause dangerous symptoms that will require medical treatment to remedy. For instance, a concussion can lead to an altered mental state where the concussed becomes unconscious. Signs Indicating a Possible Concussion Contrary to common belief, you do not have to lose consciousness or pass out to have suffered a concussion. Where some individuals will have obvious symptoms of a concussion, others will not. It is important to note that after experiencing a concussion, the brain is more susceptible to damage, and therefore, individuals who suspect that they might have had a concussion should take care to get plenty of rest and to avoid activities that might result in another injury while recovering. With the proper amount of rest, most people will make a full recovery from a concussion. Some individuals recover in a matter of hours, and some require days or even weeks to make a full recovery.

In the occasional rare case, a concussion can lead to more serious problems. Repeated concussions have been linked to long-lasting problems with learning, movement and even speaking. Since there is a minor chance that your concussion could lead to more serious problems, it is important to contact a physician right away if you suspect you have suffered a concussion.‍

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Signs within the brain

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• Issues with your memory
• Headache
• Dizziness

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Signs within your eyes

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• Blurred or double vision
• Over sensitivity to light and sounds.

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Signs with your actions

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• Slow reaction to stimuli
• Slurred speech
• Off-balance

Signs with your stomach

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• Nausea or vomiting

Signs with your alertness

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• Sluggish
• Drowsy
• Losing consciousness

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During the recovery period for a concussion, it is not uncommon for the injured to experience the following symptoms:

- Irritability
- Sensitivity to noise and/or light
- Headaches
- Difficulty concentrating

If you think that you might have experienced a concussion, it is important that you contact your doctor immediately. Anyone can injure themselves during a car accident, fall or other types of daily activities, but some are more likely than others to suffer from a concussion. Those individuals who participate in contact sports, such as football, lacrosse or boxing, have an increased risk of getting a concussion.