Concussion (Sports and Non-sports Related)

Brain injuries range from a concussion (a mild brain injury) to severe bruising or bleeding in the brain. This type of injury happens when a blow to the head makes the brain hit the inside of the skull with force.

Most people with a concussion get better within a month. But in some cases, the effects last longer. Some symptoms may not show up until hours or days later.

Sports related concussions are those that occur while a person is participating in sport activities. These might include football, soccer, baseball, hockey, and other high-contact sports. Non-sports related concussions happen under other circumstances. These could be traffic accidents, work-related injuries, falls, active recreational activities, or violent acts.

Signs and Symptoms of a concussion

Cognitive

• Trouble thinking clearly
• Feeling slowed down
• Answers questions more slowly
• Trouble concentrating, remembering, or following conversations

Emotional

• Feel more emotional, irritable or sad
• Feel anxious or nervous

Physical

• Headache or pressure in head
• Confusion
• Feeling tired or low energy
• Dizziness or balance problems
• Fuzzy or blurry vision
• Nausea or vomiting
• Sensitive to light and noise