Recognizing and Managing Concussions

Concussions are more than just “a bump on the head.” They’re a complex and potentially serious type of injury that can disrupt brain function and, if not handled correctly, lead to long-term consequences. Whether you’re a healthcare provider, athletic trainer, coach, or first responder, understanding how to recognize and manage concussions is essential. This guide breaks down everything you need to know—from spotting the first signs to helping someone recover—using straightforward language and actionable advice that balances clarity with clinical accuracy.

What Exactly is a Concussion?

A concussion is a mild traumatic brain injury (mTBI) caused by a blow to the head or violent shaking of the head and body. While the effects are usually temporary, they can impact thinking, emotions, sleep, and physical coordination.

Common Causes of Concussions

- Sports Injuries: Football, soccer, hockey, and even non-contact sports like cycling can lead to concussions.

- Falls: Especially common in young children and older adults.

- Car Accidents: Sudden impacts or rapid deceleration can jolt the brain inside the skull.

- Workplace Injuries: High-risk jobs like construction or manufacturing often result in head injuries.

Spotting the Signs

Concussions don’t always announce themselves right away. Symptoms can show up immediately or develop hours later, and they often vary by person.

Immediate Symptoms:

- Headache or pressure in the head

- Dizziness or confusion

- Nausea or vomiting

- Sensitivity to light or noise

- Blurred or double vision

Delayed Symptoms:

- Trouble concentrating or memory problems

- Irritability or mood changes

- Sleep disturbances (insomnia or excessive sleeping)

- Persistent fatigue

Red Flag Symptoms (Seek Emergency Care):

- Loss of consciousness

- Worsening headaches or repeated vomiting

- Seizures or trouble walking

- Slurred speech or unequal pupil size

What to Do Right Away

When a concussion is suspected, taking the right steps immediately can make all the difference.

Immediate Response Checklist:

1. Stop Activity: The injured person should stop all physical and mental activity immediately.

2. Secure the Scene: Make sure they are in a safe position and avoid moving them if there’s a chance of a neck or spine injury.

3. Monitor Symptoms: Keep a close eye on their condition, especially during the first few hours.

How to Evaluate a Concussion:

- Glasgow Coma Scale (GCS): Measures alertness based on eye, verbal, and motor responses.

- SCAT5: A thorough tool for assessing symptoms, memory, and balance.

- Neurocognitive Testing: Tools like ImPACT test memory, reaction time, and cognitive processing speed.

When to Use Imaging:

- CT Scans: Used to check for serious injuries, like bleeding, if red flag symptoms are present.

- MRI: May be used if symptoms persist or CT results are inconclusive.

Monitoring During the First 48 Hours

The first 24 to 48 hours after a concussion are critical. Symptoms can worsen quickly, so ongoing observation is essential.

Key Monitoring Steps:

- Sleep Safety: The injured person can sleep, but caregivers should wake them every few hours to check responsiveness and ensure symptoms haven’t worsened.

- Daily Symptom Tracking: Watch for changes in mood, behavior, or physical abilities. Keep a log of symptoms to share with medical professionals.

Helping Someone Recover

Recovering from a concussion requires time, patience, and gradual reintroduction of physical and mental activities.

Early Recovery Steps:

- Physical Rest: Avoid strenuous activities like running, heavy lifting, or intense exercise.

- Mental Rest: Limit screen time, reading, and other activities that require significant focus.

- Pain Relief: Use acetaminophen for headaches. Avoid ibuprofen or aspirin initially to reduce bleeding risks.

Long-Term Care:

- Gradual Return to Activities: Athletes should follow a step-by-step protocol to return to sports, beginning with light movement and increasing intensity only with medical approval.

- School or Work Adjustments: Provide accommodations like reduced workloads, extra breaks, or extended deadlines until full recovery.

- Specialized Therapy: Vestibular therapy can help with balance issues, while cognitive therapy may assist with memory or focus problems.

Preventing Concussions

Preventing concussions starts with awareness and preparation.

Preventative Strategies:

- Proper Gear: Helmets and other protective equipment should fit correctly and meet safety standards.

- Education: Teach athletes, workers, and families how to recognize concussion symptoms and stress the importance of reporting injuries.

- Policies and Protocols: Establish clear concussion management guidelines in schools, workplaces, and sports organizations.

Spreading Awareness:

- Community Campaigns: Educate the public about the risks of concussions and the importance of proper care.

- Technology: Apps for symptom tracking and virtual training tools can help caregivers and patients stay on top of recovery.

Final Thoughts

Concussions may be common, but they’re never something to take lightly. Early recognition, proper care, and ongoing monitoring are key to a safe and full recovery. By educating yourself and others about concussion prevention and management, you can make a lasting impact on the well-being of those you care for. This guide isn’t just about treating concussions—it’s about fostering a culture of safety, awareness, and proactive care.