Concussion Information

What is a concussion?

A concussion is a brain injury caused by a bump or blow to the head or body. A concussion occurs when the brain is violently rocked back and forth or twisted in the skull. It does not have to involve a loss of consciousness. All concussions are serious.

Signs and Symptoms

A concussion may have multiple symptoms that may appear immediately after the injury. Other symptoms may take several days or weeks to develop. Concussion symptoms may last a few days to several months. If you have a blow or bump to the head, look for these signs and symptoms of a concussion:
Signs

• Feeling dazed stunned
• Confusion about assignment or position
• Forgetting an instruction
• Being unsure about the game, score, or opponent
• Moving clumsily
• Answering questions slowly
• Losing consciousness (even briefly)
• Showing behavior or personality changes
• Unable to recall events prior to the hit or fall

Symptoms

• Unable to recall events after a hit or fall
• Headache or “pressure” in head
• Nausea or vomiting
• Balance problems or dizziness
• Double or blurry vision
• Sensitivity to light
• Sensitivity to noise
• Feeling sluggish, hazy, foggy, or groggy
• Concentration or memory problems
• Confusion
• Not feeling “right”

What should I do if I think I have a concussion?

Seek medical attention immediately. A health care professional will be able to evaluate you.