Concussion Symptoms

A concussion is the result of a blow to the head that jars or shakes the brain inside the skull. The impact of the force interrupts the brain''s normal activities and may cause numerous serious symptoms. The most common causes of concussion are motor vehicle accidents, falls, work-related accidents, sports accidents and assaults.

When a concussion occurs, symptoms may be mild or severe. While some concussions cause a temporary loss of consciousness, it is possible to sustain a concussion without losing consciousness at all.

Among common concussion symptoms are: brief loss of consciousness; inability to remember what happened immediately before and after the injury (amnesia); confusion; repeated questioning; dizziness, vertigo, lightheadedness or unsteadiness that causes difficulty standing or walking; blurred or double vision; ringing in the ears.

While these concussion symptoms can be obvious, often with a concussion, there are no external signs of injury. The asymptomatic nature of a concussion is often dangerous to the victim because of internal injuries that may have been sustained yet are difficult to detect.

It is these hidden concussion symptoms that need to be looked out for in a head injury victim. Immediate medical attention is required if the concussion victim has headaches that worsen; weakness, numbness or decreased coordination; repeated vomiting; loss of consciousness; one enlarged pupil; convulsions or seizures; slurred speech; progressively worsening confusion, restlessness or agitation.

While concussion symptoms usually occur within the first 24 hours of the incident, they may last for days, weeks or even months. Concussion victims should be watched closely for the 24 hours following their injury in case any of the more serious symptoms occur.

It is especially important to closely monitor young children after a head injury. Babies and toddlers who are not able to express themselves are at the highest risk of enduring greater suffering after a concussion. In young children, concussion symptoms include all of the same symptoms as adults in addition to: incessant crying; inability to be consoled; refusal to nurse or eat; incessant vomiting.

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Concussion Symptoms

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