Concussion in Nashville & Clarksville, TN
Have you ever suffered from confusion, nausea and headaches after a minor head injury? You may have had a concussion. Contrary to popular belief, you can develop the condition even if you don't lose consciousness.
What is a Concussion?
A concussion occurs when a blow to your head or upper body causes your brain to move rapidly inside your head or hit the side of your skull. Concussions can damage your blood vessels and nerves and may even cause a bruise on your brain. Unlike other types of injuries, you can't tell that someone has had a concussion just by looking at them. Although they may appear fine, they may actually be suffering from concussion symptoms.
Concussion Symptoms
Concussions can cause a variety of symptoms, depending on the severity of the injury, including:
- Headache
- Confusion
- Nausea and vomiting
- Dizziness or lightheadedness
- Neck pain
- Blurred vision
- Slurred speech
- Trouble with balance
- Fatigue or a sluggish feeling
- Sensitivity to light and noise
- Ringing in the ears
- Balance problems
- Memory loss
- Irritability
- Changes in behavior
If you have a grade one concussion, you won't lose consciousness and will have mild symptoms that last no longer than 15 minutes. You also won't lose consciousness if you have a grade two concussion, but your symptoms will last longer. Loss of consciousness does occur with grade three concussions and may last a few seconds or longer.
How long will my concussion symptoms last?
Concussion symptoms can last weeks or months after a blow to your head. Rest is very important because it helps your brain heal. If your symptoms are severe, you may need to modify your normal work or school schedule and avoid strenuous activity. If you play sports, you won't be able to return to your sport until your neurologist is satisfied that you have fully healed.
