A concussion (or mild traumatic brain injury (MTBI)) is a complex pathophysiologic process affecting the brain, induced by traumatic biomechanical forces secondary to direct or indirect forces to the head. Disturbance of brain function is related to neurometabolic dysfunction, rather than structural injury,
and is typically associated with normal structural neuroimaging findings (i.e., CT scan, MRI). Concussion may or may not involve a loss of consciousness (LOC). Concussion results in a constellation of physical, cognitive, emotional, and sleep-related symptoms. Symptoms may last from several minutes to days, weeks, months or even longer in some cases.
*Neuropsychological Testing can provide valuable information to help assess a patient’s brain function and impairment and assist with treatment planning, such as return to play decisions.
What are the Signs & Symptoms of Concussion?
Some people with a concussion recover quickly and fully but for others the symptoms can last for days, weeks or longer. In general, recovery may be slower among older adults, young children and teens.
Those who have had a concussion in the past are also at risk of having another one and may find that it takes longer to recover if they have another concussion. Some symptoms of concussion may appear right away, while others may not be noticed for days or months after the injury or until the person starts resuming everyday life and more demands are placed upon them.
Symptoms of concussion usually fall into four categories:
Thinking & remembering
- Difficulty thinking clearly
- Feeling slowed down
- Difficulty concentrating
- Difficulty remembering information
Physical
- Headache
- Fuzzy or blurry vision
- Dizziness
- Sensitivity to noise and/or light
- Balance problems
- No energy
Emotional
- Irritability
- Sadness
- More emotional
- Nervousness & anxiety
Sleep
- Trouble falling asleep
- Oversleeping
- Difficulty remaining asleep