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Concussion (Mild Traumatic Brain Injury)

Condition Basics

What is a concussion?

A concussion is a type of traumatic brain injury (TBI). It is caused by a blow to the head or body, a fall, or another injury that jars or shakes the brain inside the skull. Although there may be cuts or bruises on the head or face, there may be no other visible signs of a brain injury.

You don't have to pass out (lose consciousness) to have a concussion. Some people will have obvious symptoms of a concussion, such as passing out or forgetting what happened right before the injury. But other people won't. With rest, most people fully recover from a concussion. Some people recover within a few hours. But you will likely feel better within a couple of weeks. It may take up to a month to recover. This depends on how severe the concussion is.

It's important to know that after a concussion the brain is more sensitive to damage. So while you are recovering, be sure to avoid activities that might injure you again.

In rare cases, concussions cause more serious problems. Repeated concussions or a severe concussion may lead to long-lasting problems with movement, learning, or speaking. Because of the small chance of serious problems, it is important to contact a doctor if you or someone you know has symptoms of a concussion.

What causes it?

Your brain is a soft organ that is surrounded by spinal fluid and protected by your hard skull. Normally, the fluid around your brain acts like a cushion that keeps your brain from banging into your skull. But if your head or your body is hit hard, your brain can crash into your skull and be injured.

There are many ways to get a concussion. Some common ways include fights, falls, playground injuries, car crashes, and bike accidents. Concussions can also happen while participating in any sport or activity, such as football, boxing, hockey, soccer, skiing, or snowboarding.

What are the symptoms?

Symptoms of a concussion can happen soon after the head injury. Or they may develop later. They include things like thinking and memory problems, nausea, headaches, emotional changes, and sleep problems. Some people will lose consciousness after the head injury, but not everyone will. And symptoms can last for hours to months.

How is it diagnosed?

If you've had a concussion, you need to see a doctor. They will ask questions and do tests to check your thinking, memory, strength, balance, and reflexes. An imaging test, such as a CT scan or an MRI, may be done to check for a brain injury.

How is a concussion treated?

After seeing a doctor, most people can go home. Others need to be watched in the hospital. Rest can help you recover. Get plenty of sleep, avoid alcohol and drugs, and don't do activities that are physically or mentally demanding. Don't return to sports or activities until the doctor says it's okay.

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This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Ignite Healthwise, LLC, disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. Your use of this information means that you agree to the Terms of UseTerms of Use. Learn how we develop our contenthow we develop our content.

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