Healing Head Trauma: How to Spot a Concussion

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Healing Head Trauma: How to Spot a Concussion

  • Dec 18, 2017

concussion is a common type of brain injury that involves temporary loss of brain function. Concussions can occur from any injury to the head. The injury may be minor (a small bump) or something more significant like a baseball strike to the head. Many people who experience a concussion do not lose consciousness, or lose consciousness only briefly.

What are the signs of a concussion?

Memory loss or difficulty thinking clearly

Mental fog

Headache

Blurry vision

Nausea or vomiting

Sensitivity to light

Problems with balance

Mood swings

Changes in sleeping or eating habits

How do I help someone with a concussion?

If someone is hit in the head and suddenly loses consciousness, call 911.

Otherwise, advise the person to stop the activity he was engaged in when the incident occurred and encourage him to see a healthcare provider to evaluate the severity of the injury and to determine whether additional testing is needed.

When in doubt, call 911

Do I need to keep the person awake?

The American Red Cross says that "it is generally safe for a person with a concussion to go to sleep. However, the person's healthcare provider may recommend that you wake the person periodically to make sure that his condition has not worsened."


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