Sometimes a bump on the head is just a bump on the head. But if you hit your head or body hard enough, you could have a type of mild traumatic brain injury (MTBI) known as a concussion. Whether you’re an athlete who plays contact sports or someone who experienced an accidental fall, recognizing symptoms can clue you into whether or not you need professional medical care. And imaging options available at American Health Imaging (AHI) can provide you with a definitive diagnosis so you can take the right steps to safely recover.
What Are the Signs and Symptoms of a Concussion?
A concussion is a mild traumatic brain injury that requires immediate attention. If you are wondering how to tell if you have a concussion or if a concussion is suspected in someone you are with, the following symptoms could offer clues. This injury to the brain can manifest in various ways, affecting physical, cognitive, and emotional functioning.
How to Recognize Concussion Signs in Others
Specifically, if you notice the following signs in someone else after an impact to the head or body, take them to a medical professional for an examination:
- Confusion and forgetfulness
- Inability to recall events that happened before or after a blow to the head
- Loss of consciousness (though many concussions occur without losing consciousness)
- Seems dazed or stunned
- Slow to answer questions
- Uncharacteristic changes in behavior, mood or personality
- Unusual clumsiness
Common Concussion Symptoms You May Experience
If you are experiencing the following symptoms, especially after playing a contact sport or sustaining any impact, have someone take you to a medical professional:
- Behavioral changes
- Blurry vision
- Confusion or forgetfulness
- Dizziness
- Feeling groggy or sluggish
- Headache or sensation of pressure in the head
- Nausea
- Problems with balance
- Sensitivity to light or noise
- Vomiting
- Changes in sleeping patterns (sleeping more or less than usual, difficulty falling asleep)
Signs and symptoms of a concussion can begin to appear immediately after trauma to the head or body or within a few days, so be vigilant about looking for symptoms of a concussion. If you notice any new or worsening symptoms, visit the emergency room right away.
What Is Post Concussion Syndrome?
While most people recover from a mild traumatic brain injury within weeks, some may experience lingering post concussive symptoms. These can include persistent headaches, difficulty concentrating, memory problems, and mood changes. Athletes who play contact sports should be particularly aware of these symptoms and avoid returning to play until fully cleared by a medical professional.
In some cases, symptoms can persist for months, a condition known as post-concussion syndrome. If you continue to experience symptoms beyond the typical recovery period, consult with your healthcare provider about appropriate treatment options.
How Is a Concussion Diagnosed?
To determine whether you have a concussion, a medical provider will begin by asking you questions about your injury, where you are experiencing pain and what kind of symptoms you have noticed. When a concussion is suspected, a thorough neurological examination is essential. In some instances, your provider may order imaging, such as a CT scan or MRI.
If your healthcare provider suspects that your injury to the brain may have caused bleeding or a skull fracture, a CT scan or MRI for concussion can help reveal more information about needed treatment. Dedicated imaging facilities like AHI are equipped with the newest and best equipment and can provide you with the tests you need at rates you can afford.
What to Do If You Suspect a Concussion: Recovery Guidelines
Whether you experienced a direct blow to the head or body during a contact sport or through another mechanism, proper recovery is crucial. Monitor your sleeping patterns during recovery, as changes can indicate ongoing issues. Even if you didn’t lose consciousness during the initial injury, you should still take concussion symptoms seriously and seek medical attention when needed.
When to Seek Emergency Care for a Concussion
Visit the emergency room immediately if you experience:
- Worsening headaches
- Repeated vomiting
- Seizures
- Slurred speech
- Weakness or numbness
- One pupil larger than the other
- Increased confusion or disorientation
Taking concussion symptoms seriously, whether you’re an athlete who plays contact sports or have experienced an accidental injury is essential for proper recovery and preventing post-concussion syndrome. Learn more about how MRI and CT scans can help you find the answers you need and schedule an appointment today!