Concussion Awareness

Concussion is caused by a blow to the head or shaking of the head which can change normal brain function. Sometimes concussion is also called mild traumatic brain injury.  There can be loss of consciousness but this does not always occur. In most cases, brain damage from a concussion does not show on tests such as CT or MRI scan.  Symptoms can include changes in thinking, emotions and sleep. The symptoms can last for days to weeks and in some cases several months. Most patients recover completely from concussion.

After being diagnosed with a concussion, when should you call for help?

Call 911 anytime you think emergency care is needed. For example, call if an individual:

• Has twitching, jerking, or a seizure.
• Passes out (loses consciousness).
• Is confused, does not know where he or she is, or is extremely sleepy or hard to wake up.
• Suddenly cannot walk or stand.

Call your doctor now or seek immediate medical care if an individual:

• Continues to vomit after 2 hours, or has new vomiting.
• Has clear or bloody fluid coming from the nose or ears.
• Seems less alert.
• Has new weakness or numbness in any part of the body.
• Has trouble walking.

Helpful Documents

• Head Injury in Children: After Your Child’s Visit
• Head Injury in Adults: After Your Visit
• Contact Concussion Management

Other Resources

• CDC – Concussion
• Stop Sports Injuries
• Brain Injury Association of America
• LEARNet