Symptoms like repeated vomiting, loss of consciousness, prolonged amnesia or confusion, headaches/head pressure that are getting worse, and any kind of seizure activity require urgent attention
Concussion symptoms can vary widely, but we typically categorize them into six distinct groups. If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, it’s important to seek evaluation as soon as possible! Here’s a breakdown of some of the symptoms: trouble concentrating, fatigue, brain fog, dizziness, clumsiness, blurry vision, difficulty focusing and/or reading, sensitivity to light, headaches, neck pain, whiplash, ringing in the ears, difficulty falling asleep or sleeping more than usual, nausea, slow reaction time, mood swings, anxiety or depression, irritability. VERY IMPORTANT: Loss of consciousness and amnesia are also symptoms of concussion. However, you do not need to have either of these symptoms to get a concussion diagnosis.
A concussion is a mild traumatic brain injury (mTBI) caused by a blow, jolt, or impact to the head or body, leading to transient disruption of normal brain function. This injury affects the brain’s ability to process information, regulate balance, and maintain cognitive function. It often results from falls, sports injuries, car accidents or a direct trauma to the head. It causes chemical and metabolic changes in the brain rather than structural damage and is therefore a functional injury. A concussion can have significant short- and long-term effects if not properly managed.
Recovery is highly individual, as many factors can influence the process, making it impossible to establish a one-size-fits-all timeline. However, most individuals will experience significant improvement or complete resolution of symptoms within a month following the injury. The key takeaway is that the sooner an evaluation and diagnosis are made, the sooner treatment can begin, which ultimately supports a quicker recovery.
The brain is our most complex organ, and diagnosing concussions requires expert evaluation. Over 50% of concussions are missed because symptoms can be so variable, subtle, or delayed, and concussions can even mimic other injuries. Our role isn’t just to diagnose concussions, but to identify other potential issues or injuries as well. Our main goal is to connect patients with the right healthcare providers to ensure proper treatment and recovery. Concussion recovery is not one-size-fits-all. A concussion specialist tailors treatment to your specific symptoms, lifestyle, and sport.
If you are concerned about a concussion, getting evaluated by a health care professional familiar with concussion as soon as possible is your best move. The earlier you are assessed and diagnosed, the sooner concussion treatment and management can be implemented, which gives you the best chance for a fast and full recovery. After being assessed by a doctor, it is important to rest for 24-48 hours after a concussion. This means no screen time, no cell phone use, no non-essential chores. Your body needs the rest to allow your brain to focus its time and energy on recovering.