A concussion is a head injury caused by moving forces such as a bump, blow, or jolt to the head, that results in a variety of symptoms and temporary changes in mental status, coordination, and balance. Definitions are constantly updated based upon new research, but a concussion is a form of a traumatic brain injury. In fact, it’s the most common traumatic brain injury.
After a concussion, the symptoms that occur differ from patient to patient. These include headaches, dizziness, vision problems, trouble concentrating, feeling slowed down, repeated vomiting, sleep problems, and even irritability and sadness. Symptoms may not even appear for days or weeks after the injury.
While sport-related concussions are the most commonly talked about, concussions can happen from falls, car accidents, or other traumatic events. The good news is over 80% of patients diagnosed with a concussion usually get back to normal within three weeks, but some may have symptoms that last longer.
To learn more about concussions, check out our comprehensive Concussion 101 Guide here.