Concussion: Know the facts!
I wanted to write about this subject because it’s been in the news so much lately. Also, it’s personally affected my home.
It’s not like none of us had ever heard the word before, it’s merely we weren’t paying too much attention until Sid the Kid. Until it became important. Until it became recognized as a serious mental health issue.
I’m just as guilty as the rest of us. My belief was a concussion was like a bad headache. You’d shake it off after a couple of days and all would be well. Here’s the problem though. Like all mental health issues, they can’t be seen on the outside. We have a tendancy to ignore what can’t be physically seen. I don’t think this is on purpose, it’s merely a habit.
The key, I believe, is awareness. Just like any other problem that faces us.
Concussion Symptoms
Initial symtoms can be dizziness, amnesia, headache and confusion. Most likely the person with the concussion can’t remember what happened. A person can also feel nauseous and tired.
Most symptoms will disappear in under 24hrs. However, if they continue, then you have a more serious brain injury.
Continuing symptoms can include problems sleeping, light sensitivity, memory problems and mood changes.
Diagnosing Concussion
Initial diagnosis of concussion is usually done by checking pupil size and a discussion with the patient to find out how they are feeling and looking for signs of confusion and memory loss. When symptoms do not clear up or begin to worsen there are many further steps to be taken. This is to determine extent of brain injury.
Further diagnosis can include CT, MRI and EEG. It will also include seeing a neurologist and further specialists. If necessary, it can include hours of written and oral questions and tests. This is needed in severe cases to deliver the proper treatment required.
Treating concussions can take a month or two or can last many months and sometimes years. It not only depends on the severity but the age of the patient as well as overall health.
Remember, concussion affects an entire family unit. Talk to the doctors and know your facts and how you can help. Explain to friends and family members so they have a better understanding.
Contest Closed 
Contest Closed 
It hits close to home for us too. My brother had a severe concussion from hockey last year – and then my mom got hit in the head with the trunk of my jeep (it fell down) and had one. They both have had residual effects from them.
My understanding was that although a Concussion is not just a headache and needs to be monitored, it was something you had for a few days or a week. If you had more serious brain injury, then it wasn’t just a concussion, it was brain injury. Hmm, something to read up on more I guess.
I was under the same impression. However, they can last months or years. Especially if you are older or have other health issues. It is treated (usually) through a brain injury clinic but differs from the type of injuries you are referring too. It’s along the same lines as shaken baby syndrome.
I often worry about this with my boys as they are so active in sports. I was disappointed to see Sidney playing so rough and fighting last wee after suffering from this for so long
As an athlete (when I was younger and skinnier), I’ve had my fair share of concussions. I notice the headaches every now and then but I’m lucky that none of them were really bad ones. Thanks for sharing this!
I worry about concussions every time my son gets on the ice. It’s a frightening thought. Thanks for sharing facts.