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.

 

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