A concussion is one of the most common injuries in the country, especially if you are involved in contact sports. In fact, studies suggest as many as 3,000 people are admitted to the hospital with a concussion every year, and that’s just from undertaking sports.
The good news is that, in most cases, concussion isn’t serious and people make a full recovery. However, it can be a serious condition. That’s why you should be aware of what a concussion is, how to deal with it, and the best way to fully recover.
Understanding Concussion
Your brain can be said to be the most important organ in your body, it controls everything your body does. As such, damage to your brain can have a serious impact on your life quality.
The brain sits in a special fluid inside your skull. The fluid supports the brain and helps to cushion it against any blow. That’s why you don’t knock your brain every time you move.
But, when you receive a severe blow to the head or experience whiplash, your brain moves too fast and forcefully for the liquid to completely stop it from hitting the inside of your head. The impact damages the outer brain cells.
The severity of the impact controls the damage done and how successful recovery will be.
When your brain is knocked by hitting the inside of your head it’s known as a concussion.
Dealing With Concussion
People don’t always realize or admit they may have a concussion. The effects can vary greatly between people. But, in general, people that have a concussion will experience the following symptoms:
- Fatigue
- Confusion
- Headaches
- Tingling sensations
- Slurred speech
Symptoms can vary from severe to mild. In mild cases, the best approach is to monitor the person and seek medical help if the issue gets worse. If this happens or the concussion is severe, or the person has been knocked unconscious, you need to get them to the doctor as soon as possible. They are likely to refer them to a qualified neurosurgeon who will visually inspect the injuries and complete scans as necessary.
They can then help deliver a prognosis and develop a treatment/recovery plan.
In The Immediate Aftermath
Straight after a concussion has occurred it is important to avoid anything that may aggravate the issue. That means avoiding intellectual stimuli in particular.
Obviously, the head needs to be protected against additional knocks. Cold packs can be used to help reducer any swelling and it’s a good idea for the person to rest. However, while sleep is essential to help the recovery process. The person shouldn’t be allowed to sleep for several hours until it has been established there are no more serious injuries.
Recovery
The majority of people recover fully within 2 weeks. During this period physical rest and the avoidance of mental challenges is recommended. However, moderate exercise, such as walking, is a good idea. Keeping away from screens and staying hydrated can also help, as can eating plenty of protein.
Naturally, you need the all-clear from your doctor before you can return to work or sports.
