Have you had a recent blow to your head and wonder if you’ve got a concussion? A concussion is an injury that can result from falls, car accidents, and other incidents that cause your head to snap back and forth quickly.
Your brain is a gelatinous structure inside your skull, suspended in fluid. When a sudden blow causes your head to snap back and forth, your brain moves or twists violently within your skull.
The jostling motion results in a cascade of chemical changes, stretching and sometimes damaging nerves, blood vessels, and brain cells. In essence, the impact disrupts the communication network among neurons. This disruption is why even a seemingly mild blow can lead to a host of symptoms.
Curious to know if you have a concussion? Read on as Dr. David Dickerson at Performance Orthopaedics and Sports Medicine explains the symptoms.
Concussion symptoms vary widely and can be grouped into several categories:
Many people are surprised to learn that concussions can cause significant vision changes. These symptoms may include:
In some cases, a concussion may lead to post-trauma vision syndrome (PTVS) or visual midline shift syndrome (VMSS), which can interfere with everyday activities like walking and reading.
Concussions also affect cognitive functions and physical well-being. Common cognitive symptoms include confusion, memory problems, difficulty concentrating, and mood changes such as irritability.
Physical symptoms include headaches, dizziness, nausea or vomiting, and fatigue.
These symptoms can also impact your balance and coordination, further complicating recovery.
Early intervention is key to preventing long-term complications. Treatment typically begins with a comprehensive evaluation of the nerves involved in visual processing and assessments for balance and coordination. Based on your specific symptoms, our team might recommend:
Treatment intervention varies with your symptoms and the extent of your injury. Rest and a healthy diet are also essential after an injury for your brain to get what it needs to heal.
Understanding what happens to your brain during a concussion and recognizing the wide range of symptoms are the first steps toward effective treatment and recovery.
If a fall, accident, or blow to your head has left you with symptoms, get peace of mind by contacting us at Performance Orthopaedics and Sports Medicine to schedule an appointment. We have locations in Toms River and Shrewsbury, New Jersey.
