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Concussions

The Often Overlooked Traumatic Brain Injury
 
A concussion, also known as a mild brain injury (MTBI), is caused by a bump, blow or jolt to either the head or the body that causes the brain to move rapidly inside the skull. This may cause a change in mental status, with confusion and amnesia, and with or without a brief loss of consciousness.
 
 
  • An estimated 1.6-3.8 million sports- and recreation-related concussions occur in the United States each year.
  • During 2001-2005, children and youth ages 5-18 years accounted for 2.4 million sports-related emergency department (ED) visits annually, of which 6% (135,000) involved a concussion.
Concussions can have serious and long term health effects. Even a mild ding or bump on the head can be serious. Seek medical attention.
  • A concussion can be caused by direct blows to the head, gunshot wounds, violent shaking of the head, or force from a whiplash type injury.
  • Both closed and open head injuries can produce a concussion. A concussion is the most common type of traumatic brain injury.
  • A concussion is caused when the brain receives trauma from an impact or a sudden momentum or movement change. The blood vessels in the brain may stretch and cranial nerves may be damaged.
  • A person may or may not experience a brief loss of consciousness (not exceeding 20 minutes). A person may remain conscious, but feel “dazed” or “punch drunk”.
  • A concussion may or may not show up on a diagnostic imaging test, such as a CAT Scan.
  • Skull fracture, brain bleeding, or swelling may or may not be present. Therefore, concussion is sometimes defined by exclusion and is considered a complex neurobehavioral syndrome.
  • A concussion can cause diffuse axonal type injury resulting in permanent or temporary damage.
  • A blood clot in the brain can occur occasionally and be fatal.
  • It may take a few months to a few years for a concussion to heal.
 
Signs and Symptoms: headache, nausea, fatigue, confusion, memory problems, sleep disturbances, or mood changes. Symptoms are typically noticed immediately following the brain injury although some may not be recognized until days or weeks later.
 
All brain injuries are as unique as the individual who has sustained one. The recovery rate will vary from person to person. Most people with mild injuries recover fully, but it can take time. Some symptoms can last for days, weeks, or longer.
Please click on the following links to learn more about concussions.
 
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© 2010 - 1998 Brain Injury Association of New Hampshire
The Brain Injury Association of New Hampshire does not support, endorse, or recommend any product, method of treatment, or program for persons with brain injury. We endeavor to inform and believe that you have the right to know what help is available. Information within these pages consists of items that may be of interest to our community.