Concussion

A concussion is a traumatic brain injury that results in a bad headache, altered levels of alertness, or unconsciousness.  It temporarily interferes with brain function, and can affect memory, judgement, coordination, sleep patterns, speech, reflexes, and balance.  A concussion can be caused by many incidents of head trauma, including falls, sports activities, and car accidents.  Significant movement of the brain, called jarring, in any direction can cause the athlete to lose alertness and become unconscious.  The amount of time of unconsciousness determines the severity of the concussion.

Mild symptoms include headaches, memory loss, nausea, seeing flashing lights, and feeling like you have "lost time."  Severe symptoms include changes in alertness, convulsions/seizures, muscle weakness, confusion, vomiting, unequal pupils, unusual eye movement, and difficulty walking.

The doctor will perform a physical exam and check the nervous system.  This includes checking pupil size, thinking ability, reflexes, and coordination.  Tests include EEGs, head CT scans, and an MRI of the head.  The athlete needs to avoid sports until the doctor determines they are able to return.  Hospitalization is typically only needed when the concussion leads to bleeding or brain damage.  The athlete should eat a light diet, avoid alcohol, and take Tylenol for headaches.