Concussion

Concussions are brain injuries

Concussions, a type of traumatic brain injury (TBI), are one of the most common types of brain injuries among children and adults.

A concussion is caused by a bump, blow, or jolt to the head or by a hit to the body that causes the head and brain to move quickly back and forth. This sudden movement can cause the brain to bounce around or twist in the skull, creating chemical changes in the brain and sometimes stretching and damaging brain cells.

Changes in the brain after these injuries are linked to symptoms that may affect how a person thinks, learns, feels, and acts. Symptoms are usually most severe right after the injury. Learn more about concussion signs and symptoms.

Having multiple concussions may lead to more serious symptoms

There’s a bigger risk of more serious and longer-lasting symptoms when a person has multiple or repeated concussions. This is especially true when there’s not enough healing time between injuries. A person with a history of multiple concussions also may have:

• Ongoing problems with concentration, memory, headache, and emotions.
• Physical problems, such as keeping their balance and nausea.
• A greater risk for mental health problems and other chronic health conditions.

Getting medical care may help speed your recovery

Concussions should be taken seriously because they can produce changes in a person’s brain, body, and behavior. If you or a loved one might have a concussion, it is important to get checked by a medical professional. Medical professionals have tests that can aid in assessing for concussion, and getting care from a medical professional can also help speed recovery. Learn more about finding a medical or health professional and concussion tests and treatments.

How to help yourself or your loved one feel better after a concussion and improve overall brain health

Most people with a concussion feel better within four weeks. However, some people have ongoing symptoms that affect their behavior, mood, memory, or emotions for months or longer. These symptoms may not always be due only to the concussion. A thorough assessment by a medical professional trained in the evaluation and management of concussions is important to help with treatment planning.

Concussion symptoms can make it hard to do regular activities at home, work, and school. Get tips on:

• Getting better after a concussion.
• How to safely return to driving, school, work, and physical activities and sports.

There are several ways to keep your brain healthy after a concussion. Medical professionals recommend:

• Getting a good night’s sleep.
• Monitoring your blood pressure and blood sugar levels.
• Eating healthy foods and staying hydrated by drinking plenty of water.
• Keeping active in physical and social activities.
• Getting regular check-ups with your medical professional, staying up to date on vaccines, and asking for mental health support when needed.
• Avoiding alcohol, smoking, and drugs or medicines not recommended or prescribed by a medical professional.

There are several ways to lower the risk of a concussion.

Falls, car crashes, and sports-related collisions (like getting tackled in football) are a few common causes of concussions. Learn effective ways to lower the risk of concussion for yourself and your loved ones.

Compassionate answers. Real support. Every step of the way.

Contact the National Brain Injury Information Center at 1 (800) 444-6443 to speak with someone about concussion and other brain injuries, and:

• Get help with care needs
• Legal and financial resources
• Services in your community