CONCUSSION: When the Brain is Shaken.
Many of us know what a concussion means. For those who are unaware, here is the theory.
A concussion is a mild traumatic brain injury. It can be caused by a blow or a jolt to the head. It is more than just a bump on the head that can temporarily affect the way the brain functions. There may be no wound, no swelling and no obvious sign that something happened. It can happen after a fall, a sports injury, a collision, a road accident, or any sudden blow to the head.
According to the CDC, between 2001 and 2009, an estimate 1,73,285 people under age 19 were treated in hospital emergency rooms for concussion related to sports and recreational activities. Other causes include car and bicycle accidents, work-related injuries, falls and fighting. Sometimes, traumatic brain injuries can cause bruising, damage to the blood vessels and injuries to the nerves.
What makes a concussion difficult to recognise is that there may be no visible injury. A person may look perfectly fine while experiencing significant changes in the way they think, feel, sleep or behave. He/She may feel dizzy, confused, unusually tired, sensitive to light or noise and unable to concentrate. Sometimes, the changes are emotional; a person may become irritable, withdrawn, anxious, or simply “not like themselves.”
Physical, Emotional and Mental Symptoms in Adults include:
Confusion/feeling dizzy/Clumsiness
Slurred speech/ Blurred vision
Headaches/ Nausea or Vomiting
Sensitivity to light or noise
Sluggishness
Ringing in ears
Irritability or behaviour/personality changes
Difficulty concentrating/Loss of memory
Fatigue/Sleepiness
Loss of consciousness
Problem with sleep
Slowed response to questions/ Forgetfulness
Problems with taste or smell
Depression
CONCUSSION IN CHILDREN: Children are more prone to injuries. Their heads are larger compared to their bodies. It’s important to observe closely for the signs of a concussion. Young children or babies may not be able to fully communicate, so it’s very important to pay attention after a child has suffered from a head injury. Some symptoms that can be seen in children are: Headache, Dizziness, Problem with balance, Upset stomach/ Vomiting, Fatigue, Sensitivity to light or noise, Mental fog, Memory/Concentration/Focus issues, Feeling irritable, sad, nervous or emotional and sleep problems.
Babies may show the symptoms of a change in eating and sleeping patterns, Unsteadiness, staring blankly, crying uncontrollably, or a large bruise or bump in places other than the forehead.
DIAGNOSIS:
Can be a little tricky. Seek medical attention immediately. The Doctor may test coordination and reflexes, which are functions of the Central Nervous System. They may also order a CT Scan or an MRI to rule out bleeding or other serious injury.
TREATMENT:
Take proper medications prescribed by the Doctor.
Rest is very important. Take a break from work for some time to recover fully. The first 2 days are critical. Avoid doing any strenuous activity during this time.
Guard yourself from further injury. Self-care is vital. Another injury in the same place may lead to serious consequences.
Children should be given full attention by the caregivers during the ongoing treatment time. Schools should help the kids with academics.
Kids should only return to school and resume their sports or physical activities after medical clearance is given by the Doctor with reliable follow-ups.
After resuming school, the school personnel should help the child by reducing physical and mental demands, following frequent breaks, giving extra time for assignments, altering the assessment methods and limiting the screen time even at home.
As it is said, “Prevention is better than cure”. Here are some common-sense precautions one can take to avoid a concussion.
Wear protective equipment while playing a game or driving any vehicle.
Drive and ride smart by knowing the limits.
Don’t indulge in unnecessary fights.
Keep your homes uncluttered to prevent any injury or fall. Focus while walking.
Do exercises that do not cause much strain. Doing regularly will build strong muscles.
Use safety measures at home to protect children and babies.
