Concussion

Concussions are a form of traumatic brain injury. They affect the way the brain functions and can cause a variety of signs and symptoms. Unlike strokes that usually affect isolated brain regions, concussions are diffuse (or "global") brain injuries, which have characteristic symptoms and require a specific and proactive approach to management.

Any impact that causes a sudden jarring of the brain inside the skull can cause a concussion. This impact can be to the head, face, neck, or body.

Key Points

• You do not have to be hit in the head for a concussion to occur
• You do not need to be knocked unconscious to suffer a concussion
• A concussion involves a temporary disruption in brain function
• Conventional imaging such as CT or MRI will not usually reveal the injury
• Concussions usually gets better in 7-10 days with proper management
• Concussion symptoms can last many months if not managed properly
• Repeat concussions may result in more severe or prolonged symptoms
• A repeat head injury while recovering from a concussion results in the worst outcomes
• Always seek medical attention if symptoms get worse

Signs and Symptoms

Concussion symptoms tend to be generalized, often giving a sense of feeling "off," however some specific symptoms associated with concussions include:

Physical

• Headache
• Dizziness
• Nausea/Vomiting
• Ringing in ears
• Blurred or double vision
• Slurred speech
• Sensitivity to light

Cognitive

• Decreased reaction time
• Decreased balance/coordination
• Decreased concentration
• Memory problems

Emotional & Behavioural

• Change in mood
• Difficulty sleeping
• Inappropriate reactions to various stimuli
• Feelings of sadness
• Impulsive behaviour

Think you have a concussion? Call Dr. Kwinter's clinic to book an appointment to ensure it is managed properly.

How is a concussion diagnosed?

• The diagnosis of a concussion is made clinically
• Concussions cannot typically be seen on conventional imaging (e.g. X-Ray, CT, or MRI)
• Concussion assessment tools have been designed to help with detection of concussions. Your physician can administer these tools and help you manage your concussion for the best possible outcome.

Concussion management

• Some individuals may recover faster than others, but it's important to remember that: Everyone is different and every concussion is different!
• The majority of concussions will resolve within 7-10 days with appropriate management
• Some concussions can last for weeks or months. This is most common in cases of repeated concussions or when symptoms are ignored or otherwise improperly managed
• The best initial management for a concussion is strict brain rest. This means:
• NO sports
• NO video games
• NO social media
• NO TV
• NO school/work
• Once your symptoms have gone, you may follow the Return to Play Guidelines (below) to help carefully manage your recovery.

Return to Play guidelines

Return to Learn guidelines

This should take place during step 2 of the Return to Play guidelines.

Step 2A: (symptoms improving). Individualized learning activities/strategies based on your recovery should be incorporated into your routine.

This may mean talking to your teacher about your concussion to find something that works for both of you. Concussions can affect academic and cognitive performance so activity should progress slowly (both at school and at home).

Step 2B: (symptom free). You can resume regular learning activities without any individual modification. However, even if you are symptom-free you should be closely monitored. Cognitive activities can sometimes cause concussion symptoms to reappear or worsen. If this happens, talk to your doctor!

Adapted from a handout from concussionu.ca

Concussion Symptom Inventory

Dr. Kwinter may advise you to use this tool during management of your concussion as a way to track your progress.
Concussion Symptom Inventory