Guide To Concussion Symptoms

A concussion is a temporary brain injury. It may be caused by a bump or blow to the head, and in some circumstances, a concussion may be caused by trauma to another part of the body that makes the head move sharply back and forth. The sudden movement can cause stretching, twisting, or other damage to brain cells. With proper treatment, most symptoms are resolved within two weeks.

There is no test or X-ray to diagnose a concussion. However, tests or imaging may be ordered to rule out serious injury. A doctor decides whether a concussion exists based on patient observation and symptoms explained by the patient. For this reason, observations of concussion symptoms are vital after a head injury.

Ringing In The Ears

Ringing in the ears, a condition also known as tinnitus, may include other sounds like buzzing or hissing. It's not unusual for tinnitus to occur after a head injury. This symptom generally results from a bump to the temporal lobe, which is located below the temples and processes sound. Noise sensitivity may also occur with tinnitus, making noisy public places difficult to endure. Ringing usually goes away within minutes or a few hours. If it continues or gets worse, medical attention is necessary. If tinnitus symptoms with or without dizzy feelings continue after other concussion symptoms subside, patients may be referred to an ear specialist.

Keep reading for the next key symptom of a concussion.

Confusion About Trauma

Confusion immediately after a head injury occurs is likely a sign of a concussion. Usually, only short-term memory is affected, and it might be limited to the inability to recall the event. Confusion about the trauma may occur whether or not the individual lost consciousness. The patient may not know what caused their injury, have a slow response time to questions, have difficulties remembering new information, or feel like they are dazed or in a fog. A medical professional will likely ask a series of questions to determine if the patient's cognitive ability is severely affected.

Disorientation is normal following a head injury. Difficulty remembering new information, trouble with concentration, and the inability to think clearly may be experienced for several days. If these symptoms get worse or the patient cannot recognize people or places, seek emergency treatment. Restlessness or agitation may occur with increasing confusion.

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