Concussions are a mild traumatic brain injury caused by a blow to the head, which makes the brain shake inside the skull. Even though our brain is protected by our skull (some of them thicker than others) and surrounded by a cushion of fluid on the inside, significant enough shaking can cause the brain to not function properly for a period of time and cause serious side effects.

What are the symptoms?  

Contrary to what some people think, you do not have to lose consciousness in a concussion. Second, sometimes symptoms don't appear for a few days, but may last anywhere from days to months.

• Physical symptoms include headaches, nausea, vomiting, balance issues, slow reaction time, dizziness, light/sound sensitivity, or blurry vision.
• Sleepy symptoms may include overly or less sleepy, difficulty falling asleep, fatigued.
• Cognitive symptoms may look like difficulty concentrating, memory issues, confusion, feeling foggy, or in slow motion.
• Mood symptoms could include irritability, feeling emotional, sad, nervous, depressed.

What to do if you are concerned about a concussion?  

First, if the situation is an emergency---with active, repeated vomiting, staggering gait, seizures, difficult to arouse, slurred speech, bloody or clear fluid draining from the nose or ears---after a head injury---call 911 immediately. While a concussion cannot be seen on an MRI or CT scan, those scans can rule out a more serious issue such as bleeding from the blow to the head. Once no bleeding is confirmed, then the question of a concussion can be addressed.

If you suffer a head injury, playing sports for example, but otherwise feel fine, then a day or two later notice some of the symptoms, then an evaluation at your primary care provider is the recommendation.

How is a concussion treated?  

Treatment is typically a stepped approach, the first being rest---BRAIN rest. Cognitive activity (including television, work, and homework) should be avoided.  Eventually, as symptoms do not emerge, you can slowly increase brain activity along with physical activity. If symptoms emerge, then the rest is increased again.

Thousands of children and youth are diagnosed with concussions each year and only about 50% are sports-related. Falls and 'horsing around' account for most of the others. The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) website is a valuable resource for parents.  It has helpful information about concussions and sports policies.

All 50 states now have laws pertaining to concussions which educate school districts and parents about concussions, remove the athlete from play after the suspected concussion until cleared, and require permission from the healthcare provider to return to play. Most districts also require pre-concussion screening tests, as well. Check with your local school district on their concussion policy.

Of course, be safe, and encourage your kids to be safe, as well.  Anyone can fall and hit their head but wearing protective equipment (like bike helmets) can reduce the risk of concussion. Make sure you and your child wears a bike helmet properly---or else it won't matter that you're wearing one or not!    

Pay attention to your noggin!