A concussion occurs when the head hits an object or a moving object impacts the head. It temporarily interferes with the normal functioning of the brain. Falls, contact sports and motor vehicle crashes are common causes of concussion. A concussion can affect memory, judgment and speech. A person's balance and coordination may also be affected.
Area of Injury
When a person sustains a concussion, there is a temporary cessation in the functioning of the reticular activating system. The reticular activating system is the wakefulness or arousal center in the brain stem. The person may or may not have a loss of consciousness. A concussion usually requires no therapeutic intervention, although some patients occasionally require months to fully recover.
Initial Symptoms
The symptoms of a concussion may occur immediately or be delayed, according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Some common symptoms seen in patients include unconsciousness with an inability to remember events upon awakening. The individual may ask the same question repeatedly, not remembering having already asked the question. He may complain of a headache, dizziness and the need to vomit. Some individuals will experience coordination and balance problems. Complaints of blurred vision or ringing in the ears are also common symptoms.
Post-concussion Syndrome
Some patients who have had a concussion will experience a later symptom complex called post-concussion syndrome. According to the UpToDate article "Postconcussion Syndrome" by Dr. Randolph W. Evans, it is estimated that approximately 30 to 80 percent of patients with a mild to moderate brain injury will experience some symptoms of post-concussion syndrome. These symptoms may last from days to years.
Post-concussion Symptoms
Symptoms that may indicate the development of post-concussion syndrome may include changes in the ability to think, concentrate or remember. Personality changes such as becoming angry or anxious for no apparent reason might also be evident. Some people will notice they suddenly have sleeping difficulties. A lack of interest in usual activities may develop. Headaches, dizziness or unsteadiness may manifest, making walking or standing difficult. Loss of organizational skills and difficulty handling multiple tasks can develop. Oftentimes, family or close friends may notice changes before the individual is aware of them.
Diagnosis and Treatment
When a person has had a head injury, the physician may order a computed tomography, or CT scan, to see if the brain has been bruised or is bleeding. If there is no bruising or bleeding, the person is observed for further development of symptoms. Some people may be able to go home for observation while others require hospital admission. Pain medication may be ordered for comfort. Rest is one of the best ways to recover from a concussion. The types of symptoms and frequency are unique to each person, therefore the physician will treat individuals based on their symptoms.
References
- U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention; Injury Prevention & Control: Traumatic Brain Injury
- "Sheehey's Manual of Emergency Care"; Elsevier Mosby; 2005
- UpToDate; Postconcussion symdrome; Evans
