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A head concussion occurs when trauma to the head causes the brain to shake inside the skull, causing temporary alteration of the brain''s normal function. A head concussion can range from mild to severe with symptoms including, but not limited to: confusion; dizziness; memory loss; brief loss of consciousness; double vision; ringing in the ears; vision problems.
Head concussions are caused by any type of blow to the head, but are most often the result of motor vehicle accidents, falls, sporting accidents and assaults. Often the symptoms of head concussions last no longer than a few days, and some may be so subtle that the person who sustained the head concussion is not even aware of it. However, in the most severe cases, symptoms of the head concussion don''t develop until after the first 24 hours after the accident and may remain for days, weeks or even months. Recurrent head concussions can lead to permanent brain damage or even death.
In most cases, head concussions can be treated at home. However, because of the possible severity of head concussion symptoms, it is imperative that head concussion victims be monitored closely for the 24 hours following their accident. If symptoms persist or worsen, or if the person starts seizing or convulsing, vomiting continually, or continues to have more severe headache, stiff neck, memory loss, blurred vision, dizziness or confusion, it is important to seek medical help immediately. Other signs of urgency in a head concussion victim include total loss of consciousness; one pupil larger than the other; weakness, numbness or decreased coordination or unrelenting confusion, restlessness or agitation.
Young children who sustain head concussions may not be able to express themselves enough to describe their symptoms. For this reason, it is especially important that infants and toddlers be monitored very closely for at least 24 hours after sustaining a head trauma. Symptoms of head concussion in children are the same as adult symptoms, but also include: listlessness or tiring easily; irritability or crankiness; change in eating or sleeping patterns; change in the way they play or perform in school; lack of interest in favorite toys; loss of new skills, such as potty training; loss of balance, unsteady walking. Immediate danger signs include incessant crying, inability to be consoled and a refusal to nurse or eat.