There are several signs and symptoms that may suggest a concussion. If you experience any of the following after a head injury or trauma, it’s important to seek medical attention for further evaluation:
Headache or Pressure: You may experience a persistent or worsening headache, often described as pressure or aching in the head.
Confusion or Disorientation: Feeling confused, disoriented, or having difficulty concentrating or remembering recent events.
Dizziness or Balance Problems: Feeling lightheaded, dizzy, or having trouble with balance or coordination.
Nausea or Vomiting: Feeling nauseous or vomiting may occur as a result of the injury.
Sensitivity to Light or Noise: Increased sensitivity to light (photophobia) or noise (phonophobia).
Fatigue or Sleep Disturbances: Feeling excessively tired or having trouble falling asleep, staying asleep, or experiencing changes in sleep patterns.
Blurred Vision or Double Vision: Vision problems such as blurred vision, double vision, or difficulty focusing on objects.
Changes in Mood or Behavior: Irritability, mood swings, anxiety, depression, or changes in personality or behavior.
Memory Problems: Difficulty remembering new information, gaps in memory, or problems with short-term memory.
Slurred Speech or Difficulty Finding Words: Speaking in a slurred manner, difficulty finding the right words, or experiencing problems with speech and language.
Sensory Changes: Sensory disturbances such as ringing in the ears (tinnitus), a bad taste in the mouth, or changes in the sense of smell.
Loss of Consciousness: While loss of consciousness can occur with a concussion, it is not necessary for a concussion diagnosis. Most concussions do not involve loss of consciousness.
It’s important to remember that symptoms may appear immediately after the injury or may develop over time. If you suspect a concussion or have any concerns, it is recommended to seek medical evaluation from a healthcare professional, such as a doctor or a concussion specialist. They can assess your symptoms, perform a physical examination, and provide appropriate guidance for management and recovery.
