What Is a Concussion?
A concussion is a type of brain injury. It happens when your head gets hit or moves really fast and your brain gets shaken. You don’t have to pass out to have a concussion. Most people with concussions stay awake.
Your brain might not work quite right for a little while. You may feel dizzy, confused, or get a headache. Other signs are blurry vision, feeling sick, being sensitive to light or sound, being sleepy, or acting different.
A lot of kids and athletes get concussions while playing sports or falling. But sometimes, people don’t know they even had one!
Who Can Get a Concussion?
Anyone can get a concussion, but some people are more likely than others. Here are some common causes:
- Falling – especially for little kids or older adults
- Sports – like football, soccer, or hockey
- Bike or car crashes
Poor sleep or a previous concussion can make symptoms of a concussion worse if you hit your head again. Other health issues like ADHD, migraines, or anxiety can make symptoms worse or last longer as well.
How Do Doctors Check for a Concussion?
If you bump your head &/or pass out, a doctor or physical therapist might:
- Ask how you feel
- Test your eyes (how they move or focus)
- Check your balance and thinking
- Look for signs like dizziness or blurry vision
Sometimes, you may need an MRI of your brain to see what’s going on. But usually, tests and symptoms are enough.
How Do You Heal from a Concussion?
The most important thing is resting your brain. That means:
- No rough sports
- No video games or screen time
- No big school tests right away
- No activities that make you feel worse
Once you start feeling better, a physical therapist can help you slowly do light movement like walking or biking. Then, they’ll help you go back to sports or exercise—step by step—so you don’t get hurt again.
Everyone’s brain heals at a different speed. Girls and teens may take longer. If someone had more than one concussion before, it may take longer too.
Why It’s Important to Fully Heal
If you get another concussion before you heal, it can be very dangerous. This is called Second Impact Syndrome. It can cause big problems like passing out, breathing issues, or serious brain damage.
Also, having too many concussions can lead to long-term brain problems. This may look like:
- Trouble remembering things
- Feeling sad or angry all the time
- Headaches that won’t go away
- Changes in how you act or feel
This is why it’s so important to heal completely before going back to sports or play.
What To Do If You Think You Have a Concussion
If you or someone you know hit their head and doesn’t feel right, don’t wait. Get checked by a trained professional. At Inside Track Physical Therapy, our doctors can help you:
- Find out if it’s a concussion
- Make a safe plan to recover
- Get back to sports and fun when your brain is ready.
Your brain is important. Let’s keep it healthy and strong!
If you’re worried you have a concussion, you can discuss this with an Inside Track PT here!
