A concussion is an injury that affects all areas of the brain and temporarily alters the way your brain function. This condition can cause symptoms like memory loss, reduced concentration and decreased balance.

A concussion commonly occurs after serious trauma, like a car accidents, but it can also happen with a minor fall or a blow to the head from contact sports, like football or rugby. Even mild trauma to the head can lead to a concussion, which is why all head injuries should be assessed.

All concussions can potentially injure the brain and can lead to long-term effects like permanent memory loss or epilepsy if the blow to the head is intense. These effects are associated with further complications, like brain swelling and bleeding, which require urgent medical attention.

Common symptoms

The main symptoms of a concussion include:

Constant headache
Temporary memory loss
Dizziness and confusion
Nausea and vomiting
Slow or altered speech
Excessive fatigue
Excessive sensitivity to light
Difficulty falling asleep

These symptoms will develop after injuries like falls, blows to the head or car accidents. These symptoms can be mild and tend to resolve on their own within a few days.

Treatment options

Treatment for a concussion should be guided by a neurologist, who will assess the severity of the injury. Minor concussions can be treated with rest and suspension of work and other activities. The doctor may advise that you avoid:

Any mental exercises that require concentration
Watching television, using the computer or playing video games;
Reading or writing

These activities should be suspended until symptoms subside or until advised by a doctor, and should be gradually reintroduced into your daily routine.

The doctor may also recommend the use of painkillers, such as acetaminophen, to relieve headaches. However, anti-inflammatories, such as ibuprofen or aspirin, should be avoided, as they increase the risk of for bleeding in the brain.

More severe brain injuries occur that cause memory loss or a coma, for example, will require treatment in a hospital setting for at least 1 week for ongoing monitoring of the patient and IV medications.

Possible complications

Complications from concussions depend on the severity of the brain injury, but in most cases, the patient will not have any sequelae after treatment. In more severe cases, complications such as epilepsy, frequent dizziness, constant headache, vertigo or memory loss may occur.

The after-effects of a concussion may gradually reduce over time, although some may require treatment.

When to see a doctor

You should proceed immediately to an emergency room immediately when:

The concussion occurs in a child
Vomiting occurs immediately after the injury
Fainting occurs
A headache appears that worsens over time
Difficulty thinking or concentrating.

These are the most serious symptoms that should be evaluated as soon as possible by a doctor. You are also advised to seek urgent medical attention if you experience symptoms that do not resolve within 2 days.