A concussion is a traumatic brain injury, or TBI, caused by a bump, blow, or jolt to the head. It can also be caused by a hit to the body that causes the head and brain to move rapidly back and forth.
Common Signs and Symptoms
Signs observed:
- Appears to be dazed or stunned
- Is confused about assignment
- Forgets plays
- Is unsure of game, score, or opponent
- Moves clumsily
- Answers questions slowly
- Loses consciousness (even temporarily)
- Shows behavior or personality change
- Forgets events prior to hit (retrograde amnesia)
- Forgets events after hit (anterograde amnesia)
Signs reported by patient:
- Headache
- Nausea
- Balance problems or dizziness
- Double or fuzzy vision
- Sensitivity to light or noise
- Feeling sluggish
- Feeling "foggy"
- Change in sleep pattern
- Concentration or memory problems
External Resources
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention - Concussion in Sports