What is a concussion?

A concussion is the most common but least serious type of traumatic brain injury. The effects are usually temporary, but any brain injury will alter the way the brain functions for some time.1

A concussion is caused by a sudden blow to the head or the body. When this happens, the brain shakes inside the skull. The fluid around your brain usually acts like a cushion to keep your brain from banging against your skull but if you are hit hard enough in the head or body, it can crash into your skull and be injured.2 There may be no visible signs of an injury on your brain so you have to watch for the symptoms.

There are many different symptoms of a concussion that you need to be looking out for. They range from mild to severe and can last from hours to months.1 If you have any symptoms of a concussion you need to contact your doctor. The symptoms may be thinking and remembering issues such as: feeling slowed down, not being able to concentrate, not being able to remember any new information, and/or not thinking clearly.1 Physical symptoms like dizziness, headache, nausea and vomiting, balance problems, and having no energy are all symptoms of a concussion and a doctor should be consulted. Some people have emotional and mood symptoms.2 They are easily upset or angered, sad, more emotional than usual, and/or nervous or anxious. Sleep is something that should be checked also; if you are sleeping more or less than normal or having a hard time falling asleep contact your doctor.2

From the onset of ANY concussion symptoms you should see a doctor right away ! Once you are seen by a doctor you will either stay at the hospital or be sent home and watched closely for warning signs or behavioral changes.1 If you are watching someone after a concussion and the person has a headache that gets worse or doesn’t go away, a problem recognizing people and places, loss of consciousness, increased confusion, restlessness, agitation, extreme drowsiness, or you cannot wake them call 911.2 During the days or weeks to come, make sure the patient  is getting plenty of sleep at night, avoid alcohol, illegal drugs, and activities that are physically or mentally demanding.1

You cannot completely prevent a concussion but you can reduce your chances of getting one if you: ALWAYS wear a seat belt and wear a helmet while playing sports that require one, driving or riding on a motorcycle, scooter, etc., and never drive under the influence of drugs or alcohol. You can also make your home safer to prevent from tripping and falling.2

Neck strengthening has shown positive results in the reduction of concussions. Research has shown that for every 5 pounds that is added to the neck, it reduces the risk of concussion by 5%. Neck exercises can be as simple as using body weight, using bands for multidirectional resistance, or as complex as using plate loaded machine. In the end any type of neck strengthening will help, and should be a vital part of any athlete's training.

References:

1Concussion. (n.d.). Retrieved June 05, 2016, from http://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/concussion/basics/definition/con-20019272

2Concussion (Traumatic Brain Injury): Symptoms, Causes, Treatments. (n.d.). Retrieved June 05, 2016, from http://www.webmd.com/brain/concussion-traumatic-brain-injury-symptoms-causes-treatments