Did you know that around 1.7 to 3 million concussions occur each year in the USA alone?
A concussion is one of the most severe types of injury that can happen to an individual in any sport or activity. The scary thing is, sometimes they can go undetected and people don’t get the medical attention they need.
So if you’ve never had training on how to check someone for a concussion, this is the perfect article for you. Here’s a concussion symptoms checklist you can use whenever you suspect that you or someone you know has suffered a concussion:
Headaches
One of the most common symptoms of a concussion is headache. It is often described as a dull, throbbing pain that can range in intensity from mild to severe.
The headache is typically felt on both sides of the head. In some cases, the pain may be localized to one specific area.
Headaches caused by a concussion may last for several days to weeks and can worsen with physical or mental exertion. That’s why if you have headaches and you suspect you have a concussion, seek immediate medical attention. And if you want to prepare for the future, you can also get first aid certification so you know what you need to do.
Dizziness
Dizziness happens when there is a sudden jarring of the brain due to a blow or bump to the head. This can lead to a sense of spinning, lightheadedness, and difficulty with balance and coordination. Dizziness may also come with blurred vision and ringing in the ears.
Confusion
Confusion can manifest in various ways. This includes difficulty concentrating, trouble remembering new information, and feeling disoriented or foggy.
Patients may also have trouble following conversations or directions and may seem confused or dazed. Confusion can also lead to mood changes, such as irritability, anxiety, and depression.
Nausea and/or Vomiting
Nausea and vomiting can occur immediately after a head injury or may develop in the following hours or days. It is a result of the brain trying to protect itself from further injury and can be a warning sign of more serious complications. If you have persistent nausea and vomiting after hitting your head, seek concussion treatment immediately.
Sensitivity to Light or Noise
After an accident, patients may experience discomfort when exposed to bright light. This symptom can impact one’s ability to return to their daily activities. And it may require them to make adjustments in their environment.
Fatigue
Fatigue is a feeling of extreme tiredness or exhaustion that can persist for weeks or even months after the initial injury. This can be attributed to the disruption of the brain’s normal functioning.
Those experiencing fatigue after a concussion may find it difficult to concentrate or complete tasks. They may also have trouble falling or staying asleep. So, it is important to address this symptom with rest to aid in the concussion recovery process.
Remember This Concussion Symptoms Checklist for Future Reference!
Being able to recognize the symptoms of a concussion is crucial in providing timely and effective first aid. So always keep this concussion symptoms checklist in mind so you can confidently identify a concussion when needed. If possible, you should also learn first aid skills that can help you respond to the incident immediately.
Remember, always be prepared. You never know what the future may bring.
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