|
|
Concussion
Definition A concussion is a significant blow to the head that may result in unconsciousness (see also concussion - first aid).
Pictures & Images
See all Pictures & Images
Overview, Causes, & Risk Factors
A concussion may result from a fall in which the head strikes against an object or a moving object strikes the head. Significant jarring in any direction can produce unconsciousness. It is thought that there may be microscopic shearing of nerve fibers in the brain from the sudden acceleration or deceleration resulting from the injury to the head.
The length of unconsciousness may relate to the severity of the concussion. Often victims have no memory of events preceding the injury or immediately after regaining consciousness with worse injuries causing longer periods of amnesia.
Often the maximal memory loss occurs immediately after the injury with regaining of some memory function as time passes. Complete memory recovery for the event may not occur.
Bleeding into or around the brain can occur with any blow to the head, whether or not unconsciousness occurs. If someone has received a blow to the head, observe closely for signs indicating possible brain damage.
Things to watch for include repetitive vomiting, unequal pupils, confused mental state or varying levels of consciousness, seizure-like activity, weakness on one side of the body or the inability to wake up (coma). If any of these signs are present, contact your health care provider promptly.
Today's Top News Stories | | Sen. Edward Kennedy Hospitalized After Seizure - May 17, 2008, 16:51 His carotid artery was cleared of a partial blockage last fall. | | Cheaper Earrings More Likely to Contain Nickel - May 17, 2008, 09:00 But report could not establish safe-limit price as guide for avoiding exposure. | | FDA Panel Considers Toll-Free Number for TV Drug Ads - May 17, 2008, 07:00 Consumers could report side effects, but critics want agency to act, not wait years. | | Not All Colon Cancer Patients Need Chemotherapy: Study - May 16, 2008, 14:00 DNA mismatch in some early stage cases makes therapy of little benefit, shortens survival. | | Clinical Trials Update: May 16, 2008 - May 16, 2008, 10:40
- Adenocarcinoma
- Migraine and Cluster Headaches
- Pancreatic Cancer
|
|
Jump to another section
Definition Concussion Overview, Causes, & Risk Factors Concussion Symptoms & Signs Concussion Prevention Concussion Diagnosis & Tests Concussion Treatment Concussion Prognosis Concussion Complications Calling Your Health Care Provider
Pictures & Images
Topics that might be of interest to you Diseases & Conditions
Intracerebral Hemorrhage
Tests & Exams
Cranial CT Scan MRI of the Head
Other Topics
Bleeding Confusion Consciousness - Decreased Drowsiness Head Injury Nausea and Vomiting Safety Seizures Unconsciousness - First Aid Weakness
Review Date : 1/17/2002
Reviewed By : Galit Kleiner-Fisman MD, FRCPC, Department of Neurology, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.
|
|