A concussion is a significant blow to the head, neck or body. Specifically, when the impact has produced a force transmitted to the brain resulting in a mild brain injury. The Berlin Concussion Consensus defines concussion as “A complex pathophysiology process affecting the brain, induced by biomechanical forces.” This force on the brain initiates a changes in the brain transmitters and chemicals that help regulate all our senses. It is also suggested concussion can injure parts of the nerves (axon), change blood flow and increase inflammation affecting the brain.
Symptoms and signs may present immediately, or evolve over minutes or hours, and commonly resolve within days, but may be prolonged. These include, but not limited to
Headaches
Neck pain
Nausea or vomiting
Blurred vision
Balance problems
Sensitivity to noise or light
Difficulty concentrating or memory
Fatigue or low low energy
Trouble falling asleep
Unfortunately the most recent research has suggested there is no abnormalities detected through imaging of the brain post concussion. Doctors however, may wish to complete imaging as there are other structures of importance to rule out serious pathologies. Sport-related concussion results in a range of clinical symptoms and signs that may or may not involve loss of consciousness. It is estimated loss of consciousness occurs in only 10% of concussions. This highlights the importance of post head trauma assessment and management as our understanding of concessions are changing.
