What are the Common Symptoms of a Concussion? This was a question I asked on Instagram last week as I had hit my head. Ironically, I do know the common symptoms of a concussion normally but in my brain fog…I couldn’t think of them and it didn’t occur to me to A) call a doctor B) search for the symptoms on the internet. Here are some tips on if you think you (or someone you know) may have a concussion).
Aside: I do have a mild concussion. Medically confirmed by a doctor.
What is a concussion?
A concussion is a traumatic brain injury that affects your brain function. Effects are usually temporary but can include headaches and problems with concentration, memory, balance and coordination.
Concussions are usually caused by a blow to the head. Violently shaking of the head and upper body also can cause concussions.
–Source: Mayo Clinic
My concussion: I walked into an armoire at full stride. Hit my forehead. Got a pretty good sized goose egg! Cut the inside of my mouth. And yes, even though I’m a grown up…I cried.
Common Symptoms of a Concussion
- Headache
- Ringing in the ears
- Nausea/Vomiting
- Fatigue/drowsiness
- Blurry vision
- Brain fog
- Sensitivity to light/noise
What do you do if you (or someone you know) has a head injury?
- Call a medical professional!
This is a do as I say…not as I do thing here. I did not call a doctor right away. I figured…”It’s just a smack on the head”. I didn’t think brain injury. I iced the area and went to bed. Not the best ideas with a head trauma. Seek medical advice. They will go through a checklist to diagnose a concussion.
Listen to the people around you.
For me it was my family and Instagram. They had a perspective other than my brain fog (clearly) and pointed out it was likely a concussion.
Tips for when you have a concussion diagnosis
- No screens (tv, tablet, phone, ereader)
- Do not listen to music
- Refrain from reading
- No writing
- Stay in a dark room
- Rest
- Eat well
- Tell others you have a concussion so they can help take care of you (get groceries, clear up work deadlines)
And make life easier…just put out snack foods for the family dinner.
Both my daughter and brother have had serious concussions and after a car accident when I was 5 when my head hit the dashboard, I am sure in hindsight that I suffered from a concussion.
Thanks for bringing this to light, as many people do not take it seriously. Rest is key. Get well soon. 🙂
Hope you feel better soon. Take care and rest !