What is a concussion?
A concussion is a type of traumatic brain injury caused by a bump, blow, or jolt to the head or by a hit to the body that causes the head and brain to move rapidly back and forth. This sudden movement can cause the brain to bounce around or twist in the skull, creating chemical changes in the brain and sometimes stretching and damaging brain cells.
What are the symptoms of a concussion?
Common symptoms of a concussion include:
- Headache
- Confusion
- Difficulty remembering or paying attention
- Balance problems or dizziness
- Double or blurred vision
- Sensitivity to light or noise
- Nausea or vomiting
- Feeling sluggish, hazy, foggy, or groggy
Symptoms may appear right away or hours after the injury. Some symptoms can last for days, weeks, or longer.
What is a mild concussion?
A concussion is considered “mild” when symptoms are relatively minor and resolve within 7-10 days. With a mild concussion, there is no loss of consciousness and symptoms are not severe enough to require extended rest or time off from school/work.
However, even mild concussions should not be ignored as they can lead to long-term problems if not managed properly. Repeated concussions before full recovery can be dangerous.
Key facts about mild concussions:
- Cause same initial symptoms as more severe concussions
- Majority of concussions are classified as “mild”
- Symptoms resolve in 7-10 days in adults; longer in children
- Loss of consciousness and amnesia do not occur
- Abnormal brain scans unlikely
- Cognitive testing often normal after injury
Can you ignore a mild concussion?
No, mild concussions should never be ignored. Here’s why:
Danger of second impact syndrome
If someone returns to normal activity before fully healing from a concussion, even a mild one, they are at increased risk of second impact syndrome if their head gets hit again. Second impact syndrome occurs when rapid swelling in the brain leads to severe disability or death after a second concussion. It is rare but devastating.
Prolonged symptoms
Ignoring concussion symptoms and trying to “tough it out” often makes symptoms persist longer. Rest and recovery right away can help minimize the duration of concussion symptoms.
Long-term complications
Evidence shows that concussions, even mild ones, can lead to lasting cognitive, physical, sleep, and emotional symptoms if not managed appropriately. These long-term issues can negatively impact quality of life.
Increased susceptibility
After an initial concussion, the brain is more vulnerable to injury. Someone who has had a concussion is more likely to get another one. Repeat concussions can cause cumulative damage.
What should you do after a mild concussion?
- See a doctor. A medical professional can assess symptoms, provide guidance, and rule out more serious injury.
- Rest physically and mentally. Avoid physical and cognitive exertion until symptoms subside.
- Limit screen time and stimulation. Refrain from activities that worsen symptoms.
- Avoid alcohol and recreational drugs.
- Ask about over-the-counter medications that are safe to take.
- Return to normal activities gradually under doctor supervision.
- Communicate with teachers, coaches, bosses about the injury and recovery needs.
- See a concussion specialist if symptoms persist longer than 2 weeks.
When can you return to sport after a mild concussion?
Athletes should never return to sport until cleared by a healthcare provider. Premature return risks further injury. Recovery time will vary, but athletes generally should not return to sport until they have:
- No symptoms at rest or with physical exertion
- Normal neurocognitive functioning
- Normal balance and coordination
- Completed graduated return-to-play protocol under medical supervision
Conclusion
Mild concussions should never be ignored or taken lightly. Even concussions that seem minor need to be evaluated and managed properly to prevent short and long-term consequences. Rest and gradual return to activity under medical guidance is key. Anyone with a suspected concussion, regardless of severity, should seek medical care.