Fortunately, cultural awareness of the dangers of a concussion is increasing. The Oscar-nominated film Concussion showed one physician’s efforts to alert the National Football League of his research showing the long-term hazards of repeated concussions. The professional and collegiate sports leagues have helped increase awareness by instituting new rules designed to protect athletes.
It's just as important for the rest of us to be aware of the signs of a concussion. Our kids are involved in contact sports. Accidents may happen, and even when the head is not injured directly, a concussion may manifest, as when in an auto accident and the body jerks back and forth violently (causing the brain to bounce around inside the skull cavity).
When you observe someone suffering an injury, look for these three signs of a concussion.
Mental difficulties
A concussion may cause the injured party to experience some cognitive difficulties soon after the injury occurs. The person might have difficulty remembering things. They might have a hard time understanding new information and may lose concentration easily. You can ask the injured person to answer questions they should know the answer to, such as where they were born or the date to test their mental state.
Physical symptoms
The injured person that has a concussion might show several physical symptoms. They might feel sick to their stomach. They might complain of dizziness or blurry vision. For some time after the injury has occurred, the injured could note they feel tired or sleepy.
Someone with a concussion might sleep for a longer time than usual. You can check for these symptoms by simply asking the injured whether they feel any of these coming on, or observe their walk, to see if they maintain their balance. Not every person with a concussion will lose consciousness, so don't think that just because the injured appears to be awake and moving that there is no concussion present.
Emotional issues
A concussion can cause a person to feel irritable or quick to anger. They might show some unusual sadness or rapidly changing moods. The injured might report they are feeling nervous or demonstrate anxious feelings. Observe a recently injured person to determine whether they are experiencing problems with emotions.
What to do when you discover symptoms of a concussion
These signs and symptoms may not always appear directly after the injury. It may take days or even weeks. If you've observed symptoms in someone playing sports, take that person out of the action immediately. If they're driving, take the keys and arrange a ride home for them.
Make sure the injured person gets some rest, and keep them away from eye-straining activities like using a computer or playing video games. Because of the seriousness of concussions, It's best that you get them assistance and a diagnosis from a medical professional as soon as possible.
Concussions and traumatic brain injuries can lead to other medical issues, especially if the injured has suffered more than one. They can also compound other problems, like depression or anxiety. Let everyone in your life know the importance of recognizing the signs and symptoms of a concussion, for your safety and theirs.
Visit Complete Care
If you notice the signs and symptoms of a concussion in a loved one after a fall or hard hit to the head and think they may need emergency medical treatment visit your nearest Complete Care Emergency Room.
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