Concussion

What is a concussion?

A concussion is a type of traumatic brain injury that is caused by a blow to the head or body, a fall, or another injury that jars or shakes the brain inside the skull. Although there may be cuts or bruises on the head or face, there may be no other visible signs of a brain injury.

You don’t have to lose consciousness to have a concussion. Some people will have obvious symptoms of a concussion, such as loss of consciousness or loss of memory. But other people won’t. With rest and proper treatment, most people fully recover from a concussion.

What causes a concussion?

Your brain is a soft organ that is surrounded by spinal fluid and protected by your hard skull. Normally, the fluid around your brain acts like a cushion that keeps your brain from banging into your skull. But if your head or your body is hit hard, your brain can crash into your skull and be injured.

There are many ways to get a concussion. Some common ways include fights, falls, playground injuries, car crashes and bike accidents. Concussions can also happen while participating in any sport or activity such as football, boxing, hockey, soccer, skiing or snowboarding.

What are the symptoms?

Symptoms of a concussion range from mild to severe and can last for hours, days, weeks, or even months. If you notice any symptoms of a concussion, contact your physician immediately.

Symptoms of a concussion fit into four main categories:

Thinking and remembering

• Not thinking clearly
• Feeling slowed down
• Not being able to concentrate
• Not being able to remember new information

Physical

• Headache
• Fuzzy or blurry vision
• Nausea and vomiting
• Dizziness
• Sensitivity to light or noise
• Balance problems

Psychological

• Fatigue and lethargy
• Emotional and mood changes
• Easily upset or angered
• Sad
• Nervous or anxious

Sleep

• Sleeping more than usual
• Sleeping less than usual
• Having a hard time falling asleep

Are you suffering from a concussion?

Contact us today at Yonkers, Bronx & Pleasantville, NY Centers and let’s get a plan together that will help you feel better quickly.