Concussion is a mild form of brain injury caused by a blow to the head from a fall or other incident that jars or shakes the brain inside the skull.andnbsp;

Signs and Symptoms

- Reduced reaction time
- Confusion
- Difficulty concentrating
- Short term memory loss
- Headache
- Blurred vision
- Nausea
- Fatigue
- Dizziness
- Light and sound sensitivity
- Instability
- Loss of consciousness
- Mood changes
- Sleep difficulties

Cause

Concussion is commonly caused by incidents where the head strikes another object - for example in a fall, a car accident, or collision with a ball or stick. It can also be caused by a quick acceleration or deceleration of the head without physical contact from an external object. Such events cause shifting of the delicate brain tissue inside the hard skull. This can disrupt the brain’s ability to process sensory input.

Diagnosis

No sign of concussion is seen on CT or MRI, diagnosis is made based on a group of symptoms that can occur immediately or arise over weeks to months after the injury. The presence of three or more symptoms within four weeks of injury is classified as Post-Concussion Syndrome.

Treatment

If a suspected concussion is sustained qualified, medical advice and prescribed rest from physical and mental exertion are necessary. This may require the limiting of activities that require thinking and concentration, including reading, working at a computer, and participation in sport. A gradual return to normal activities as symptoms improve is advised. Vestibular rehabilitation provided at Best Balance Physiotherapy can help improve symptoms associated with concussion and guide the return to normal daily activities.