A concussion is a “blow to your head” brain injury that causes a brief loss of normal brain function. Confusion and memory loss are often clues.
Sports concussions happen all the time, especially if you play a head belting sport. Yet, there are other behaviors for causing this head bumping amnesia.
Concussions are the lowliest form of brain injuries. In fact, you can experience a concussion and not know it. But even a minor concussion injures your brain.
Your brain floats inside your skull, and cerebrospinal fluid tends to absorb any inconsequential jolts or blows. However, a violent blow or jolt can propel your brain into your skull, causing blood vessel bleeding, nerve fiber tearing and brain bruising.
Post concussion syndrome is the condition of suffering concussion symptoms for weeks or months after your head blow. The two most common symptoms being confusion and amnesia. Other sports, or whatnot, concussion symptoms include:
- fatigue
- irritability
- dizziness
- ear ringing
- depression
- light sensitivity
- slurred speech
- sleep problems
- impaired balance
- nausea, vomiting
- loss of smell, taste
- visual disturbances
- prolonged headache
- concentration difficulty
Symptoms can be subtle or may not come about for hours or days.
The severity of your brain injury may not be readily recognized. What you believe are concussion symptoms can also be caused by:
- contusion
- hematoma
- skull fracture
- brain swelling
So get with a health care person ASAP if you experience any symptoms after a head whack or severe jolt.
Rest is the best treatment for a minor concussion. Acetaminophen is recommended for headaches caused by concussions. Never take aspirin, ibuprofen or other NSAIDs because they increase the risk of bleeding.
If you sustain a sports concussion, playing too soon after puts your head at risk for a second concussion. Or even a potentially fatal brain injury.
So, give your brain at least a week of healing time. Even longer if you experience post concussion syndrome symptoms, for instance:
Your risk of a sports concussion is highest while participating in sports like:
- soccer
- boxing
- football
- baseball
- basketball
- ice hockey
- snow skiing
- bull, bronco riding
A concussion amplifies your risk for developing epilepsy. Also, a link is suggested between multiple concussions and Alzheimer’s disease.
Keep your brain in healthy shape with head protection. Helmets may not be cute, but they’ll sure cushion the knock causing amnesia and confusion.