Is a concussion a serious injury?
Is a concussion a serious injury?
Concussions can also occur from a fall or a blow to the body that causes the head to move rapidly back and forth. Doctors may describe these injuries as “mild” because concussions are usually not life-threatening. Even so, their effects can be serious.
How long after hitting head can concussion symptoms start?
In most people, symptoms occur within the first seven to 10 days and go away within three months. Sometimes, they can persist for a year or more. The goal of treatment after concussion is to effectively manage your symptoms.
How serious is a mild concussion?
Even if you’ve been told that you’ve only experienced a “mild concussion,” all concussions should be considered serious events. In most cases it’s true that a single concussion is unlikely to cause permanent brain damage. However, even having a mild concussion puts you at an increased risk of another concussion.
What are symptoms of someone who suffers a concussion?
Following a concussion, some people may suffer persisting symptoms, such as memory and concentration problems, mood swings, personality changes, headache, fatigue, dizziness, insomnia and excessive drowsiness for several weeks to months.
Can I sleep after I hit my head?
Most medical professionals say it is fine—sometimes even advised—to let people sleep after incurring a head injury. The American Academy of Family Physicians states it is not necessary to keep a person awake after a head injury.
Should I go to hospital if I hit my head?
Emerman says patients who’ve suffered a head injury should visit the Emergency Department immediately if they: Lost consciousness or became confused/disoriented after they were injured. Suffered the injury at a high speed (car or bike accident, a steep fall, etc.) Are vomiting or feel nauseated.
Can I sleep if I hit my head?
What to do if you have a concussion or think you might?
If you think you or someone you know has a concussion, contact your health care professional. Your health care professional can evaluate your concussion and determine if you need to be referred to a neurologist, neuropsychologist, neurosurgeon, or specialist in rehabilitation (such as a speech pathologist ) for specialized care.
What are the long term effects of a concussion?
Among the most common long-term effects from a concussion is cognitive impairment. Cognitive function refers to your ability to acquire, retain, and synthesize information. When your cognitive function becomes impaired, you may struggle with attention, memorization, learning, critical thinking, and reasoning skills.
What is the best medicine for a concussion?
Several drugs are often used to treat symptoms of concussion, including an epilepsy drug, gabapentin (Neurontin), amitriptyline (Elavil) and other antidepressants.
Should I see a doctor for concussion?
See a doctor if you suspect that you or someone else has a concussion. If a concussion occurs during sports practice or a game, tell the athletic coach and go to a doctor. Concussions may be accompanied by injuries to the spine. If you think a person has a neck or back injury, avoid moving them and call an ambulance for help.