A concussion is a mild traumatic brain injury caused by a blow to the head or body that shakes the brain inside the skull. Common signs include confusion, headache, and memory loss.
A concussion occurs when the brain moves rapidly within the skull, damaging brain cells temporarily. This can happen from a direct hit to the head or from a force that causes the head to jerk suddenly, like a car accident or fall.
Symptoms are divided into physical, cognitive, and emotional categories:
| Physical Symptoms | Cognitive Symptoms | Emotional Symptoms |
|---|---|---|
| Headache | Confusion | Irritability |
| Nausea or vomiting | Memory loss | Anxiety |
| Dizziness | Difficulty concentrating | Depression |
| Balance problems | Slowed thinking | Mood swings |
Symptoms may appear right away or develop over time, sometimes hours or even days later. According to the Mayo Clinic, most concussion symptoms resolve within 7-10 days, but some can last weeks or longer.
Many people think you must lose consciousness to have a concussion, but less than 10% of concussions involve a loss of consciousness. Others assume symptoms always appear immediately, but they can develop gradually.
If you or someone else experiences these symptoms after a head injury, seek medical attention immediately. Doctors may perform a neurological exam, ask about symptoms, and recommend rest and monitoring. In severe cases, imaging tests like CT scans may be needed.
I once witnessed a soccer player collide with another player, resulting in a head injury. The player showed no immediate symptoms but later reported headaches and difficulty concentrating. They were evaluated by medical staff and diagnosed with a concussion, highlighting the importance of monitoring symptoms even if they don't appear right away.