Concussions: Symptoms, Types, Treatment, and Prevention
A concussion
is caused by direct trauma to the head. The trauma can jolt the brain and, in
the process cause bruises, and damage to blood vessels and nerves. This results
in malfunctions in the brain.
High-risk
concussion causes include:
- Falls in children or some older adults
- Being hit in the head
- Engaging in contact sports like football
- Automobile accidents
- Activity in the military service
Concussion Symptoms
Though
concussions are relatively common, they can be hard to diagnose. The symptoms
can manifest physically, mentally, and even emotionally. Some of the symptoms
include:
- Slurred speech
- Nausea
- A feeling of confusion
- Headaches
- Sensitivity to noise or light
- Loss of memory
- Depression
- Loss of consciousness
- Problems with sleep
- Difficulty concentrating
- Ringing in ears
- Slowed in responding to questions
Types of Concussions
Professionals
stratify concussions based on the loss of equilibrium, amnesia, and loss of
consciousness. They are divided into three categories:
Grade 1: No loss of consciousness with
symptoms lasting about 15 minutes.
Grade 2: The symptoms are moderate and last
about 15 minutes with no loss of consciousness.
Grade 3: Symptoms are severe with people
losing consciousness. They usually last for a few seconds. People suffering
from this grade should get immediate urgent care in San Antonio.
Concussion Treatment
A lot of the
time, concussions do not need hospitalization at a Shanefield urgent care
center. However, professionals recommend medical attention if the symptoms last
within 24 to 72 hours. You should generally know an urgent care clinic near you
in case you experience a severe concussion.
For recovery
at home:
- Take breaks: After a concussion, you should take a
moment and restrain yourself from engaging again. Playing after a concussion
puts you at greater risk of a second trauma.
- Prevent future concussions: Secondary concussions can cause severe
problems in the future like brain damage or even death.
- Take a pain killer: Doctors will offer up pain killers or
recommend over-the-counter alternatives to help with the headaches.
Should the
symptoms persist, you should visit the Marbach urgent care clinic to get
professional help.
Prevention
By the
unexpected nature of concussions, they are hard to prevent. However, there are
several precautions you can take to lower your risk. Some of them include:
- Wear protective equipment: When engaging in contact sports,
wearing gear like head guards ,and padding can significantly reduce the risk of
concussion.
- Do not engage in fights: Concussions from assaults are fairly
common. Avoiding physical altercations reduces your risk.
- Don’t drink and drive: Drivers under the influence of
alcohol are a lot more likely to be involved in accidents and develop
concussions.
- Take up an exercise regimen: Exercising will give better balance
and more muscular legs, limiting the number of falls.
- Remove fall hazards around you: Eliminate clutter on your floors.
This will reduce your risk of tripping and getting a concussion.
Should all
the prevention measures fail, you should make sure you know where the urgent
care facilities around you are, for immediate treatment.