Understanding Concussions: Symptoms, Treatment, and Prevention

Concussions are among the most misunderstood brain injuries. They can happen to anyone, at any time, and their effects aren’t always as visible as a broken bone or a cut. Whether it’s a sports-related injury, a car accident, or even a fall, concussions affect millions of people each year. But what exactly happens when someone suffers a concussion, and why is it so important to take these injuries seriously?

What is a Concussion?

“A concussion is a traumatic brain injury caused by a direct blow to the head, neck or body resulting in impulsive force being transmitted to the brain,” explained family and sports medicine physician, Dr. Brian Coleman, M.D., professor in the Department of Family & Preventative Medicine at the University of Oklahoma College of Medicine.

This sudden movement can cause the brain to bounce around or twist within the skull, leading to chemical changes and in some cases, damage to brain cells.

“Concussions are common in the United States, and can have serious consequences if not managed properly,” said Dr. Coleman. “Falls are the leading cause, but they also happen in contact sports like football and soccer. However, not every impact causes a concussion — it depends on force and vulnerability.”

Symptoms of a Concussion

Some symptoms appear immediately, while others may take days to surface. Common symptoms include:

• Headaches
• Mood changes
• Confusion
• Memory problems
• Dizziness
• Balance issues
• Sleep disturbances
• Nausea or vomiting
• Sensitivity to light or noise
• Feeling sluggish or foggy

While some concussions result in loss of consciousness, most do not.

Diagnosis and Treatment

Never ignore a hit to the head or a fall that causes head pain. It could be a sign of a concussion and may lead to serious complications if left untreated. Diagnosis and treatment include:

1. Initial Check: Stop and get evaluated immediately. A doctor will assess symptoms and perform an exam.
2. Imaging Tests: Though rare, tests like CT scans or MRIs may be needed to rule out more serious injuries.
3. Rest: The primary treatment for concussion is rest — both physical and mental. Avoid strenuous activities and screen time.
4. Gradual Return: Once symptoms improve, a gradual return to normal activities can begin. A doctor can help guide this process.

Even if the initial symptoms seem mild, such as a headache or slight dizziness, a concussion can still have significant long-term effects if not properly taken care of.

Why Concussions Are Misunderstood

Concussions are often called "mild" because they usually aren't life-threatening, and many people recover fully. However, this term can be misleading. Even if the initial symptoms seem minor, concussions can have serious long-term effects. These can include ongoing headaches, memory problems, trouble concentrating, and emotional changes like depression and irritability. In some cases, repeated concussions can lead to chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE), a serious condition that causes long-term brain damage.

While most people recover fully, it's important to follow proper protocols to ensure a safe recovery.

Why is Concussion Protocol Important?

Concussion protocol is a set of guidelines used to identify, treat, and manage concussions. These protocols are important in sports and other activities where head injuries are common. They help ensure that individuals receive the right care and avoid returning to activities too soon, which can lead to further injury.

1. Early Diagnosis: Concussion protocols help diagnose concussions early. Recognizing the signs and symptoms quickly is essential to prevent further injury. Symptoms can include headaches, dizziness, confusion, and sensitivity to light or noise
2. Immediate Removal from Play: If a concussion is suspected, the individual is immediately removed from play or activity. This step is critical because continuing to participate can worsen the injury and lead to more severe consequences
3. Proper Assessment: Concussion protocols include specific tests and assessments to evaluate the severity of the injury. These tests check cognitive functions like memory, concentration, and reaction time, as well as physical abilities like balance and coordination
4. Appropriate Treatment: Following a concussion, rest is the primary treatment. This means avoiding physical and mental activities that can strain the brain. Proper treatment helps ensure a full recovery and reduces the risk of long-term complications
5. Gradual Return to Activity: Concussion protocols outline a step-by-step process for returning to normal activities. This gradual approach ensures that the individual is fully recovered before resuming full participation. It helps prevent re-injury and promotes safe recovery
6. Education and Awareness: Concussion protocols also focus on educating athletes, coaches, parents, and medical staff about the importance of recognizing and managing concussions. Increased awareness leads to better prevention and care
7. Long-Term Health: Proper management of concussions is vital for long-term brain health. Repeated concussions or returning to activities too soon can lead to chronic issues like post-concussion syndrome or more severe brain injuries

While most people recover fully, it's important to follow proper protocols to ensure a safe recovery.

Preventing Concussion

Although we can’t eliminate all risks, proactive safety measures can significantly reduce the likelihood of concussion.

1. Always wear a properly fitting helmet when engaging in activities like biking, skateboarding, skiing, or playing contact sports. Helmets are designed to absorb impact and protect the head from injury.
2. Ensure your home is safe by installing handrails on stairs, using window guards, and keeping floors free of clutter to prevent falls.
3. Always use seat belts in vehicles and ensure children are in the legal and appropriate car seats or booster seats.
4. Follow sports safety guidelines, such as using proper techniques, avoiding dangerous plays, and ensuring there is a qualified supervisor present during activities.
5. Discourage risky behaviors that could lead to head injuries, such as diving into shallow water, roughhousing, or playing contact sports without proper training and equipment.
6. Educate yourself and others about the signs and symptoms of concussions so that injuries can be recognized and treated promptly.

Taking preventative measures seriously is essential for reducing the risk of concussion. Everyone — parents, coaches, athletes, and community members — has a role to play in creating a safer environment. By prioritizing safety, we can help prevent concussions and protect the long-term health and well-being of everyone involved.

If you experience severe symptoms after a head injury, like loss of consciousness, repeated vomiting, worsening headache, confusion, slurred speech, or seizures after a head injury, call 911 or go to the emergency room immediately. These may be signs of a more serious brain injury. For milder symptoms such as dizziness, mild headache, or sensitivity to light, contact your medical provider. If symptoms persist or worsen, seek medical advice.

At OU Health, Oklahoma’s only Level I trauma center, we have experts who specialize in every stage of injury care — from prevention to recovery.

Expert Concussion Care at OU Health

“We take pride in our multidisciplinary approach to concussion evaluation and treatment,” said Dr. Coleman. “Whether you choose OU Health in Oklahoma City, Tulsa or Edmond, our sports medicine professionals review your situation in depth and work with you to provide personalized care for your condition.”

Learn more about concussion care or make an appointment with an OU Health sports medicine physician.