Concussion Specialist

What is a concussion?

A concussion is a head injury that happens when your brain moves rapidly back and forth and hits the inside of your skull. It usually occurs after an impactful bump or blow to the head and results in chemical and structural changes in the brain.

As far as traumatic brain injuries go, concussions are on the milder side. They are not life-threatening, but they can have long-lasting and serious effects. In the moments after a concussion, you might experience some confusion, an altered mental state, or even unconsciousness.

Football players, boxers, and other athletes in impact sports are at a higher-than-average risk for concussions, but anyone can get them. You can get a concussion after falling, being in a car accident, or in unexpected day-to-day situations. 

How can I tell if I have a concussion?

It’s important to become familiar with concussion symptoms so you know how to recognize one in yourself or someone else and manage it in the moments after it happens. Possible symptoms of a concussion include:

• Confusion
• Drowsiness
• Nausea and vomiting
• Headache
• Dizziness
• Memory problems
• Slow reaction time
• Trouble keeping balance
• Light sensitivity
• Seizures
• Irritability 
• Slurred speech

In some cases, symptoms like these show up right away after the blow to the head. However, delayed concussion symptoms can show up hours, days, or even weeks after the incident. 

If you notice concussion symptoms in yourself or someone else, you should get medical care as soon as possible. 

How are concussions treated?

When you come in with possible concussion symptoms, your provider at Doctors United takes note of your symptoms and performs a physical exam. They ask how the injury happened and go over your medical history. 

If your symptoms are serious, a magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scan or computed tomography (CT) scan can show the severity of the brain injury.

Treatment for your concussion depends on the symptoms you have and how severe the concussion seems. Doctors United advises you on the treatments and activity modifications that can help you recover. Typically, they recommend resting for the first few days and gradually re-entering your normal routine. 

You should follow your doctor’s advice closely while managing a concussion and avoid activities that may be dangerous with a head injury, like driving. For headaches, you may take an over-the-counter pain reliever according to your doctor’s instructions. 
To schedule an appointment for a concussion at Doctors United, call the nearest office or book your visit online today.