Source: health.clevelandclinic.org | Re-Post Duerson Fund 8/24/2017 –
Between 1.6 and 3.8 million concussions are believed to occur across the United States each year. Increased awareness has prompted an increase in diagnosis of concussive injuries.
What is a concussion? It’s a short-lived functional brain injury, typically caused by a bump, blow or jolt to the head.
If you’ve been diagnosed with or suspect that you or a loved one has a concussion, treatment — including physical and mental rest — should start right away. Don’t wait to seek help from a medical professional with expertise in evaluating and managing concussions.
Warning Signs Of Concussion
Because problems can arise in the first 24 to 48 hours after a head injury, anyone suspected of sustaining a concussion should be monitored for worsening symptoms, including:
- Repetitive nausea or vomiting
- Pupils that are enlarged or unequal in size
- Unusual or bizarre behavior
- Inability to recognize people or places
- 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
- If you have any concerns at all after a head injury, seek medical attention immediately.