What is concussion? 

• Mild brain injury 
• Bump or blow to head – for example Falls, contact sport, car accidents, previous concussion. 
• Can interfere with brain function and may or may not be associated with loss of consciousness 

Why does it occur? 

• Brain like jelly – shakes or bounces around in the hard skull, causing minor injury 
• Can cause bleeding within the skull – small or large. 
• Can be cumulative – recurrent concussions – may in some cases longer term damage. 

How do we recognise? 

• Affects brain function for short period of time. 
• Immediate: dazed, confused, vomits, loss consciousness, poor balance, 
• Longer term: headache continues, fatigue, poor concentration. 
• Certainly more serious: drowsy, fit, slurrrd speech. 

How do we treat? 

• Most  recover within 2 weeks. Children 4 weeks.  
• Brain needs to rest – toughing it out or ignoring symptoms can make worse, Immediate rest 48 hours, Avoid loud music, screens, hard physical activity, alcohol. 
• Return to work or sports activity once fully recovered – often hard for sports people to accept. 
• If return before fully recovered- increased risk of second concussion which can be serious. 

Other things to watch out for? 

• Symptoms worsening see a doctor as soon as possible. 
• If persist more than 3-4 weeks long concussion syndrome – specialist support. 
• Important any concussion reviewed with your Doctor.