HEAD INJURY, CEREBRAL CONCUSSION |
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General Information
DEFINITION--A violent jar or shock to the brain that causes an immediate change in brain function, including possible loss of consciousness.
BODY PARTS INVOLVED
Head.
Skull.
Brain.
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SIGNS & SYMPTOMS
MILD CONCUSSION:
Temporary loss of consciousness.
Memory loss (amnesia).
Emotional instability. SEVERE CONCUSSION:
Prolonged unconsciousness.
Dilated pupils.
Change in breathing.
Disturbed vision.
Disturbed equilibrium.
Memory loss.
CAUSESBlow to the head.
RISK INCREASES WITH
Contact sports.
Auto, motorcycle or bike racing.
HOW TO PREVENTWear a protective helmet for any activity at risk for a head injury.
WHAT TO EXPECT
APPROPRIATE HEALTH CARE
Doctor's diagnosis and care.
Hospitalization for a serious brain concussion.
Home care if the initial evaluation doesn't dictate hospitalization.
DIAGNOSTIC MEASURES
Your own observation of symptoms.
Physical exam and medical history by a doctor. The total extent of injury may not be apparent for 48 to 72 hours.
X-rays of the head and neck to assess total injury to soft tissue and to rule out the possibility of a skull fracture.
CAT scan (See Glossary) of the head.
Laboratory studies of blood and cerebrospinal fluid.
POSSIBLE COMPLICATIONS
Permanent brain damage, depending on the extent of injury. Repeated concussions can cause slurred speech, slow movement, slow thought processes and tremor.
Excessive cerebral bleeding, causing a clot that puts pressure on the brain.
Prolonged healing time if usual activities are resumed too soon.
Infection if skin over the concussion site is broken.
PROBABLE OUTCOMEComplete recovery is likely with early diagnosis and treatment. Complications can be life-threatening or cause permanent brain damage.
HOW TO TREAT
NOTE -- Follow your doctor's instructions. These instructions are supplemental.
FIRST AID
Ice helps stop bleeding from any scalp wound. Prepare an ice pack of ice cubes or chips wrapped in plastic or in a container. Place a towel over the injured area to prevent skin damage. Apply ice for 20 minutes, then rest 10 minutes. Repeat applications for 24 to 48 hours after injury.
Elevate the head above the level of the heart to reduce swelling and prevent accumulation of fluid.
CONTINUING CAREThe extent of injury can be determined only with careful examination and observation. After a doctor's examination, the injured person may be sent home, but a responsible person must stay with the person and watch for serious symptoms. The first 24 hours after injury are critical, although serious aftereffects can appear later. If you are watching the patient, awaken him or her every hour for 24 hours. Report to the doctor immediately if you can't awaken or arouse the person. Report also any of the following:
Vomiting.
Inability to move the arms and legs equally well on both sides.
Temperature above 100F (37.8C).
Stiff neck.
Pupils of unequal size or shape.
Convulsions.
Noticeable restlessness.
Severe headache that persists longer than 4 hours after injury.
Confusion.
MEDICATION
Don't use any medicine--including non-prescription acetaminophen or aspirin -- until the extent of injury is certain.
ACTIVITYRest in bed until the doctor determines the danger of brain injury is over. Normal activity may then be resumed as symptoms improve.
DIETFollow a full liquid diet until the danger passes.
REHABILITATIONDepends on the possibility of brain damage. Consult your doctor.
CALL YOUR DOCTOR IF
You have had a head injury and develop symptoms of a concussion, or you observe the signs and symptoms in someone else.
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