In recent years, the importance of proper concussion awareness and treatment has been a hot topic in sports media. In particular the film “Concussion” brought the attention of the mainstream audience to the dangers associated with multiple concussions over the lifespan of an athlete. However, there is still confusion as to what a concussion is, what the signs are, what to do about it, and more importantly, what not to do.
WHAT IS A CONCUSSION?
A concussion is defined as “a complex pathophysiological process affecting the brain, induced by traumatic biomechanical forces.” Essentially, it’s an injury to the brain that can affect a player’s ability to make decisions, calculate, coordinate movements and remember. In some cases, their vision can be affected, and all of this can occur with or without a loss of consciousness.
This type of injury on a physiological level occurs because the brain “floats” within the skull, and a blow to the head can cause the brain to bounce off the walls of the skull causing essentially a bruise. It does not need to necessarily be a blow to the head. Sometimes a body collision with another player, if forceful enough can cause the shaking forces necessary to cause a concussion.
WHAT ARE THE SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS OF A CONCUSSION?
- Appearing dazed
- Loss of coordination
- Uncharacteristic behaviour
- Personality change
- Slow response to questions
- Blurry vision
- Ringing ears
- Sensitivity to light or sound
- Vomiting
- Loss of consciousness (in only 10 to 20% of cases)
MANAGEMENT AND PROGNOSIS
It is important that if a player is suspected of having a concussion they must cease play.
If you are suspected of having a concussion by your first aider, you must seek medical attention immediately.
Healing time for a typical concussion is 10 to 14 days, though this can vary depending on the extent of the injury.
