A concussion is a traumatic brain injury caused by a bump to the head or body that causes the brain to move rapidly back and forth.
The sudden movement can cause the brain to bounce around creating chemical changes and sometimes damaging brain cells.
A concussion will not always knock you unconscious.
If you think you have a concussion it’s important you reach out to a healthcare provider for a diagnosis.
They will diagnose you with a physical exam or sometimes imaging tests like a CT scan or MRI.
A concussion can have a range of effects on your body and mind.
Physical symptoms include headaches, dizziness, nausea, vomiting, balance problems and sensitivity to light or noise.
A concussion can also affect your ability to think clearly, concentrate, and remember things.
You might feel confused, have trouble focusing, or find it difficult to process information like normal.
Symptoms could appear immediately or be delayed and symptoms can last up to a year or longer if severe enough.
Concussions can affect your sleep patterns like having trouble falling asleep, staying asleep, or sleeping more than normal.
If severe enough, some people may have permanent effects diagnosed as PCS (Post-Concussion Syndrome).
Long term side effects can include depression, anxiety, ongoing headaches, and dizziness.
Another major long term side effect is difficulties with short term memory and other cognitive functions.
The best treatment for a concussion is rest, physical and mental.
This means avoiding activities that require a lot of concentration or physical exertion until symptoms improve.
As having firsthand experience with long term side effects of a concussion, it’s easy to think that you’re okay and go back to work like a normal day.
It’s extremely important to take the time you need for your body to heal properly so you do not permanently damage yourself.
Remember, you only have one body and you need to prioritize your health to make sure you live the healthiest life you can.