What is a concussion?
A concussion is a mild traumatic brain injury (TBI) that occurs from a direct blow or bump to the head. It can also result from a blow to another part of the body when the force travels to the head. A concussion can affect coordination, learning, memory and emotions.
Most concussions heal without issue. However, like any other injury, a brain injury should be given time to heal, which includes both physical and mental rest.
One of the most severe problems that can occur is bleeding inside the brain. If bleeding or swelling occurs, pressure in the skull rises and can cause brain injury. Bleeding might develop right after an injury or hours later, so monitoring symptoms is critical as this can be life threatening.
Signs and Symptoms
Common symptoms of a concussion include:
What can I expect from Fairview and HealthEast’s concussion program?
Our providers will:
When is it safe to return to activity?
You should be free of symptoms and have returned to normal sleeping and eating patterns as well as typical concentration levels before resuming activity. Once normal activities have resumed and there are no symptoms at rest, more demanding activities may be tried. Over time, activity will be increased as long as symptoms do not return. A gradual return to activities allows us the opportunity to assess brain healing.
Under no circumstances should anyone return to activity while experiencing concussion signs or symptoms. There should be no return to activity on the same day concussion symptoms are noted or a formal diagnosis of a concussion is made.
If you have additional questions, call our concussion hotline at 952-460-4440.
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