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Concussion Management
Concussion: Recognition, Treatment and Rehabilitation
After sustaining a head injury, some people do not realize they may have suffered a concussion. The effects don’t always reveal themselves immediately, and that is because just like other types of injuries, the brain can get shaken up or swollen. Another misconception is that people always pass out when they have a concussion. Although this can happen, sometimes there are no visible signs of an injury to the brain. A person might have mild symptoms, or they may experience symptoms for days or weeks thereafter.
Even if you feel fine after a head injury, it is wise to check with a physician, particularly one who is trained in sports medicine. The physical, emotional and mental effects can last months or years if a concussion is left untreated.
Here are some possible effects of a concussion to be aware of:
- Feeling dizzy
- Light or sound sensitivity
- Blurry vision
- Depression/sadness/anxiety
- Neck pain
- Difficulty sleeping
- Nausea/vomiting
- Confusion/irritability
- Ear or head pressure
- Vertigo
- Frequent or chronic headaches
- Seizure/shakes/convulsions
- Fainting spells or blackouts
- Feeling sluggish or lethargic
- Short-term memory troubles
- Abnormally less energetic
- Foggy or strange feelings
Extensive Concussion Testing and Training Methods
Recognizing a concussion quickly is a key to effective treatment. The best way to recovery quickly is with rest, but our sports medicine team also uses cutting edge methods for faster healing from a concussion. If you do hit your head but are not sure whether you’ve had a concussion or not, see one of our physicians for a checkup within 48 hours of the injury. It is better to be safe than sorry.
Once we determine you may have sustained a head injury, we can start testing and treating it promptly. Do not participate in any mentally taxing activities, such as using the computer, playing loud music or games, wearing headphones, doing homework or exercise programs, etc. It may be tough to give up these activities, but rest assured this is one critical step in the healing process. Your brain needs time to rest.
