A concussion is a mild traumatic brain injury (mTBI) that occurs when the brain suddenly moves or bounces within the skull due to a direct or indirect force. While often associated with sports injuries, concussions can occur in various situations, from car accidents to simple falls in daily life.

Understanding the mechanism
When an impact occurs, the brain, which normally floats in protective cerebrospinal fluid, can collide with the inner walls of the skull. This collision can cause temporary changes in brain function and trigger a complex cascade of chemical changes within brain cells. These changes can affect how the brain processes information, maintains balance, and manages emotions.

Common symptoms
Concussion symptoms typically fall into four main categories:

  • Physical: Headache, dizziness, sensitivity to light and noise, blurred vision, nausea, balance problems, and fatigue
  • Cognitive: Difficulty concentrating, memory problems, feeling “foggy,” confusion, and slower processing speed
  • Emotional: Irritability, anxiety, depression, and mood swings
  • Sleep-related: Sleeping more or less than usual, trouble falling asleep, and drowsiness

Immediate and delayed symptoms
While some concussion signs appear immediately after injury, others may develop over hours or days. It’s crucial to understand that loss of consciousness occurs in only about 10% of concussions, so its absence doesn’t rule out a concussion diagnosis.

Recovery and management
Every concussion is unique, and recovery times vary significantly among individuals. While most people recover within 7-14 days, some may experience symptoms for weeks or months. The key principles of concussion recovery include:

  • Physical and cognitive rest during the acute phase
  • Gradual return to activities under medical supervision
  • Avoiding activities that risk another concussion before full recovery
  • Following a structured return-to-play protocol for athletes

Long-term considerations
Research has shown that individuals who experience multiple concussions may face increased risks of:

  • Post-concussion syndrome (persistent symptoms lasting beyond the typical recovery period)
  • Chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE) in cases of repeated head trauma
  • Cognitive decline and mental health challenges
  • Increased susceptibility to future concussions

Prevention and safety
Preventing concussions involves multiple strategies:

  • Wearing appropriate protective equipment during sports and recreational activities
  • Following proper technique and rules in contact sports
  • Creating safe environments to prevent falls and accidents
  • Implementing concussion protocols in sports and educational settings

When to seek emergency care
Immediate medical attention is necessary if someone experiences:

  • Loss of consciousness lasting more than 30 seconds
  • Repeated vomiting
  • Seizures
  • Increasing confusion or irritability
  • Weakness or numbness in limbs
  • Severe or worsening headache

Remember, every concussion should be taken seriously, as proper management is crucial for optimal recovery and preventing long-term complications. If you suspect a concussion, seek medical evaluation from healthcare professionals experienced in concussion care.

How Brainsafe can help
Brainsafe offers specialized support for concussion management through:

  • Individual symptom assessment
  • Personalized recovery plans
  • Digital care meetings with concussion experts
  • Ongoing monitoring and adjustment of recovery protocols
  • Support for safe return to activities

For severe head injuries or emergency situations, we recommend immediate emergency room evaluation. For children showing concussion symptoms, they must be present during the care meeting, and only legal guardians can book digital consultations.