A concussion is a type of mild traumatic brain injury that affects brain function, usually temporarily. The effects of a concussion can be short-term and may include headaches, difficulty concentrating, memory issues, balance problems, mood changes, and sleep disturbances. Concussions are typically caused by an impact to the head or body that results in a change in brain function, although not everyone who experiences such a blow will develop a concussion. Falls are the most common cause of concussions, and athletes who participate in contact sports like football are also at risk.

Concussions can be difficult to recognize, especially in infants and toddlers, as they cannot describe how they feel. Symptoms may be subtle and not appear immediately, lasting for days, weeks, or even longer. Common symptoms include headache, confusion, loss of memory (amnesia), ringing in the ears, nausea, vomiting, fatigue, blurry vision, and other issues.

If you suspect a concussion, it’s essential to seek medical attention within one to two days. Children and adolescents should see a healthcare professional trained in evaluating and managing pediatric concussions. Seek emergency care for an adult or child who experiences a head injury and any of the following symptoms: repeated vomiting or nausea, loss of consciousness lasting longer than 30 seconds, worsening headache, fluid or blood draining from the nose or ears, vision or eye changes, ringing in the ears that doesn’t go away, weakness in the arms or legs, changes in behavior, confusion or disorientation, slurred speech or other changes in speech, obvious changes to mental function, changes in physical coordination, seizures or convulsions, dizziness that doesn’t go away or that goes away and comes back, symptoms that worsen over time, or large head bumps or bruises.

When symptoms occur in athletes, it’s crucial to follow proper protocols. Never return to play or vigorous activity immediately following a concussion. Experts recommend that adult, child, and adolescent athletes with concussions not return to play on the same day as the injury. Gradual return to learning and physical activity is individual and depends on the symptoms, always supervised by a healthcare professional.

Concussions can be caused by damage in different areas of the brain based on injury type. During a concussion, the brain slides back and forth against the inner walls of the skull, caused by a violent blow to the head and neck or upper body, sudden acceleration or deceleration of the head, or other factors.

Risk factors for concussions include activities that can lead to falls, especially in young children and older adults, high-risk sports, not using proper safety equipment and supervision, auto accidents, pedestrian or bicycle accidents, military combat, physical abuse, and having had a previous concussion.

Potential complications of concussions include post-traumatic headaches, post-traumatic vertigo, persistent post-concussive symptoms (post-concussion syndrome), effects of multiple brain injuries, and second impact syndrome.

To prevent or minimize the risk of a concussion, wear protective gear during sports and other recreational activities, follow the rules of the game and practice good sportsmanship, wear a helmet when bicycling, motorcycling, snowboarding, or doing any activity that may result in a head injury, buckle your seat belt, make your home safe, protect your children, exercise regularly, and educate others about concussions.