1. More Than a Knock to the Head
Even though a concussion is the least serious of brain injuries, do not take it lightly. It occurs when a blow to the head causes damage to the tissues or blood vessels in the brain. The brain is shaken back and forth within the skull, affecting nerve cells that in turn cause a chemical reaction in the brain because of the trauma. Concussions are a head injury that is caused by falls, car accidents and sports injuries. Violent shaking, as in shaken baby syndrome, can also cause concussions.
2. Allow the Brain to Heal
With a mild concussion, the person doesn't lose consciousness, but may have trouble with their memory for up to 20 minutes after the injury. Normal thinking returns after that, and typically no further complications are experienced. Since the injury seems short lived, it's easy to think that you don't need to stay home for a few days, just to allow your brain to heal from the trauma. But doing so can actually prevent further complications from developing, so it's best to get plenty of rest in the days after a concussion.
3. When to See the Doc
Concussion symptoms that should alert you to a more serious concussion in the few days following the injury are dizziness, nausea or vomiting, headache and mental confusion. Amnesia is a common symptom of a more serious concussion, so if you're having trouble remembering what happened since the concussion, see you doctor right away. It's important to see your doctor for a follow up after even a mild concussion, particularly if you have any lasting side effects.
4. Post-Concussive Syndrome
Even a mild concussion can cause lasting effects such as irritability, memory problems and depression. This typically occurs when another concussion closely follows the first one, and the brain hasn't had time to heal. This is one of the reasons why it's imperative to rest after you've had a concussion. Don't return to normal activities in which another concussion is possible, such as sports, until you are completely healed. You must allow some time for your recovery.
5. Prevention is the Best Medicine
Avoid concussions with the simple wearing of a helmet when participating in contact sports, or activities where falls are possible, such as skateboarding, biking, ice-skating and horseback riding. Parents need to be sure their children understand the importance of wearing a helmet, and set a good example when participating in those activities by wearing helmets themselves.
