But…How can I have a concussion

I bet 90% of the patients I see that have TBIs (traumatic brain injuries) don’t think they have any type of head injury.  The reasons range from: I didn’t get knocked out– to — I didn’t get hit that hard.  Our brain is a VERY sensitive structure.  I like to use a tomato in a jar that gets shaken to show how our brain can get jostled around inside the skull.  I would judge a tomato to be more solid and dense than our brain (some people’s density not withstanding…)  If after trauma you notice: irritability, headache, fatigue, sensitivity to light, or even changes in your normal personality, you should be checked for a head injury.

It is hard to manage a condition you cannot see; therefore, it is important to be seen by medical professional with expertise in evaluating and managing concussions.

What to do after a concussion

  1. REST!! It is vital to let your brain heal after a head injury.  The key to rest is to listen to your body, it will tell you when you are doing too much!  If you experience fatigue, that is your body talking to you and you need to rest.

  2. No screen time (TV, phone, iPad…no electronics) or reading for the first three days or longer depending on symptoms. This will let your brain start to regain its normal function.

  3. Supplementing with Omega3 and magnesium gives extra boost to healing tissues

  4. Gradually increase activity **do not return to the activity where the injury was sustained until cleared by a medical professional** starting with something as simple as walking can start to build your endurance

  5. Be smart!  Head injuries can be treated effectively but can also cause devastating long-lasting damage.  If your symptoms last longer than six weeks you fall into the category of post-concussive syndrome.

Remember, you do not have to lose consciousness to have a head injury, it can come from things as simple a bump, blow or jolt to the head.  If you experience any of the following, seek immediate medical attention.

  • Repetitive nausea or vomiting

  • Pupils that are enlarged or unequal in size

  • Unusual or bizarre behavior

  • Inability to recognize people or places

  • Seizures

  • Severe dizziness

  • Progressively worsening headache

  • Double or blurry vision

  • Numbness or weakness in the arms or legs

  • Excessive drowsiness or fainting

  • Slurred speech

  • Difficulty waking from sleep

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