Concussions are extremely prevalent, especially among children who participate in sports. Whether it is getting hit in the head with a basketball, or receiving a punch to the face in karate, concussions occur at home, on the playground, and during extra-curricular activities. Let’s dive into the causes, signs, first aid steps, and prevention tips regarding concussions.
What is a Concussion?
A concussion is a type of brain injury, usually occurring after someone has experienced trauma to the head, neck, or body. Concussions affect each person differently, but they can alter how we live our lives, both physically and emotionally.
Causes of a Concussion
When there is rapid movement in the head, causing the brain to move into the skull, it may harm the brain, creating injuries like a concussion.
This quick motion can occur in numerous ways, such as:
- A hit to the head
- A blunt force to the face or body
- Whiplash
- Vehicle collisions
- Sport injuries
Inquire about First Aid Training
Concussions and other injuries are covered in our Standard First Aid & CPR/AED Level C training course. Contact us today to get registered and learn more!
Concussion Signs and Symptoms
Since concussions do not appear on image scans, including an MRI, X-ray, and CT scan, it is crucial to look for thinking, physical, emotional, and sleep pattern signs and symptoms instead.
Thinking
Concussions can alter your thinking by creating:
- Confusion
- Temporary memory loss
- Slower reaction times
- Issues with concentration
- Difficulty thinking
Physical
The body may also experience out-of-the-ordinary scenarios, such as:
- Dizziness or disorientation
- Migraines
- Sensitivity to light or noise
- Fatigue
- Vomiting
- Clumsiness
- Feeling groggy and not right
- Blurry vision
Emotional
Head trauma may also impact one’s emotional well-being, initiating:
- Sadness
- Nervousness or anxiousness
- Mood, behavioural, or personality changes
- Increased irritability
Sleep
Concussions can also play a role in changes in sleeping patterns:
- Difficulty sleeping
- Sleeping a lot more or less than normal
Other more severe symptoms
- Seizures or convulsions
- Double vision or disorientation
- Loss of consciousness or fainting
- Constant vomiting
- Weak limbs
Symptoms specific to babies and children
Several cases of concussions are left untreated because it may be difficult to recognize and spot the symptoms. It is especially harder to treat head injuriesand identify these signs and symptoms in babies and children because of their inability to speak or express their feelings clearly. Other symptoms specific to this age group include:
- Disinterest and inattention towards their favourite foods or toys
- Changes in typical sleeping and eating patterns
- Excessive crying
First Aid for Concussions
Symptoms of concussions are typically seen as minor, causing internal and external pressure to not seek medical care. For instance, if a soccer player were to experience a blow to the head, they may continue to play and disregard the symptoms that may occur. However, neglecting a concussion and its recovery can lead to further injuries or even permanent brain damage and death.
That is why it is important to address a concussion in a timely manner by:
- Immediately stopping an activity following trauma to the head, neck, or body
- Then, seek medical attention as soon as possible. In Canada, only doctors and nurses can medically assess patients with head injuries through clinical history and physical examination, diagnostics, and specialist referrals.
- Continue to monitor your condition and observe your injuries. Recovery may take 10 days to 4 weeks, with adults recovering faster than children. Research also shows that men and women have various symptoms and recover differently, changing their given diagnosis and treatment.
Acute Phase
The acute phase of a concussion is the time period in which the concussion has recently occurred, and the patient is experiencing worsening or the peak of their symptoms. During this phase, it is important for the patient to stop performing activities that require a lot of mental and physical exertion, as the brain and body require plenty of rest. The patient can participate in light activities, such as listening to music, short strolls, and condensed periods of work. However, any activity that further exacerbates symptoms should be avoided.
Recovery Phase
After the acute phase comes the recovery phase. Symptoms should start slowly improving, and the patient can begin gradually returning to regular day-to-day activities. The level of mental and physical exertion a patient can tolerate during this stage is situational and based on symptoms. Typically, medical professionals recommend staying away from exercise and heavy strain on the body until symptoms are gone.
How to Prevent a Concussion
To help prevent concussions take precautionary measures because it is better to be safe than sorry. Be sure to wear your seat belt in the car and never drive or enter a vehicle with a driver under the influence. Don’t forget to wear the proper helmet when biking or playing contact sports while ensuring that it fits correctly. Childproofing your home could also allow your little ones to move and explore without fear of a concussion.
Take a Standard First Aid Training Class
Witnessing your child, friend, or loved one experience a head trauma can make you feel powerless, but standard First Aid training, can equip you with the knowledge and courage to take action in these situations. Register at your closest Coast2Coast location today to begin tackling situations with the proper training and confidence.
