Have You Ever Had A Concussion While Playing A Sport

Here is all you need to know about concussions.

A concussion is said to occur when the brain encounters a mild trauma caused by a bump or blow to the head.

It is due to the sudden movement that causes the brain to twist around inside the skull.

This leads the damaging of the brain cells and there are certain chemical changes that tend to occur too. Source.

However, concussions are said to be and even termed as mild in nature as they are not life-threatening nor untreatable. All that said and done, the effects of a concussion can last for days and weeks together.

Causes:

Any hit, bolt or impact that occurs all of a sudden to a person’s head can cause a concussion. Most common ways are if one is involved in a head-to-head collision, heading the ball incorrectly or collision between skiers. 

Playing in the playground and falling around is one of the highest causes of concussions among children.

Symptoms:

A headache is the most common symptom of a concussion. This can be a serious symptom if over time the headache gets worse. This might be an indication that there is an internal bleeding in the skull.

Also, the following symptoms are commonly associated with a concussion:

• Double/ blurry vision
• Balance problems
• Dizziness
• Drowsiness
• Sensitivity to light and noise
• Trouble in comprehension
• Depression
• Change in sleep patterns
• Irritability
• Sadness

These symptoms are shown if the concussion is quite serious:

• Seizures
• Inability to recognize people or places
• Strange behaviour which is not usual with that person

Treatment:

Rest and recovery is the best way to treat a concussion. The doctor or physician may ask you to take time off work or school so that you get the best possible rest required to make a full recovery.

On an average, the symptoms can last from 6 to 10 days depending on the extent of the concussion. Within 7 days most people get better. The ones who don’t by then should see a doctor.

The general do’s and don’ts for treatment are:

• To rest during the day and sleep well during the day
• Music and video games that stimulate the senses should be avoided
• Eating well balanced and healthy meals
• Ease into daily activities, not to rush into routine immediately
• Inform at school or work about the concussion
• Avoid strenuous physical and mental activities
• Drive and operate heavy machinery only after the doctor gives you a clearance

Concussion during sports:

As soon as an injury like a concussion occurs, the player should be taken out of the game or his practice should come to an immediate halt. A person trained in injuries like this should come and take a look.

An athlete who has gone through a concussion is advised not to play at all that day. In fact, until his/her symptoms last, he/she should not start to play again.

An athlete can be advised to wait and rest for 1-2 weeks before she/he gets back into his daily routine.

The coaches and the trainers should be aware of the following:

• Cause of injury
• The force with which the injury is caused
• About memory loss, if any
• Any seizures following the injuries

Prevention:

There are a few ways one can prevent a concussion from occurring:

• Educate players about such incidents. 
• Limit the amount of contact during the practise sessions.
• Make sure that the athletes do not harm each other and avoid actions that are not safe.