Concussions Demystified: Mechanisms, Symptoms, and Effective Treatment - Part 2
- Leann Boehm
- May 8
- 4 min read
In Part 1 of this series, we explored the mechanism of injury (MOI) of concussions, detailing how the brain is affected by impacts and the resulting neurometabolic cascade. Now, in Part 2, we shift our focus to the symptoms of concussions, which can vary significantly from person to person.
Part 2: Recognizing Concussion Symptoms – A Comprehensive Overview
Concussions are often difficult to diagnose immediately, as their symptoms can range from subtle to severe and may not appear until hours or even days after the injury. The symptoms of a concussion can affect multiple aspects of an individual’s life, including physical, cognitive, emotional, and sleep functions. Common physical symptoms include headaches, dizziness, and sensitivity to light or noise, while cognitive issues like memory problems and difficulty concentrating can impair everyday activities. Emotional symptoms, such as irritability and anxiety, may also arise, along with sleep disturbances like fatigue and insomnia. In this section, we’ll explore these symptoms in detail, helping you recognize the signs of a concussion and understand how they impact an individual’s recovery journey.
Physical Symptoms
One of the most common and immediate symptoms of a concussion is a headache. This symptom can range from a mild, dull pain to a severe and debilitating headache. Other common physical symptoms include neck pain, sensitivity to light (photophobia), sensitivity to sound (phonophobia), dizziness, balance issues, nausea, and vomiting. Dizziness and nausea are particularly troublesome as they can severely limit the ability to engage in daily activities (Complete Concussions, 2023).
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Balance and Coordination Problems
Balance problems are often reported after a concussion, and they are related to the vestibular system, which controls balance and spatial orientation. The injury disrupts this system, making it difficult for the brain to process information related to movement and position. This can lead to feelings of unsteadiness or a sense of being off-balance, which can be exacerbated by physical activity. In some cases, balance issues can persist for weeks or even months after the injury, requiring specialized rehabilitation (Schneider et al., 2014).
Visual Disturbances
Concussions can also affect the visual system. Common visual symptoms include blurry vision, difficulty focusing, and sensitivity to light. These symptoms are often linked to the vestibular system but may also be caused by a disruption in the brain’s ability to process visual information. This can result in trouble reading or tracking moving objects, leading to difficulties in tasks like driving or reading (Complete Concussions, 2023).
Cognitive Symptoms
Cognitive symptoms are another hallmark of concussions and can include memory problems, difficulty concentrating, confusion, and a general sense of being in a mental fog. The individual may struggle to remember recent events, have difficulty processing information, or experience a slowed reaction time. These symptoms can impair an individual’s ability to perform tasks at work or school, making academic or professional functioning more challenging (Complete Concussions, 2023).
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Emotional Symptoms
The emotional impact of a concussion can often be overlooked, but it is just as significant. After a concussion, individuals may experience mood swings, anxiety, depression, irritability, and heightened emotional responses. These emotional disturbances can be difficult to manage, especially if the individual is also dealing with the physical and cognitive aspects of recovery (Patricios et al., 2023). Mood swings are particularly common among those who have a history of mental health disorders, such as anxiety or depression, and may persist beyond the acute phase of concussion recovery.
Sleep Disturbances
Sleep issues are another common symptom following a concussion. Individuals may experience fatigue, trouble falling asleep, sleeping too much, or waking up frequently during the night. Sleep disturbances can exacerbate other concussion symptoms, including memory issues, cognitive dysfunction, and emotional instability. Proper rest and sleep hygiene are crucial in the recovery process (Complete Concussions, 2023).
Delayed Symptoms
It is important to recognize that some concussion symptoms do not appear immediately after the injury. Symptoms such as headache, dizziness, and cognitive difficulties can take several hours or even days to manifest. This delayed onset can make it difficult for individuals to recognize the severity of their injury immediately after the impact. In some cases, symptoms may evolve or intensify over time, which is why individuals who suspect they have sustained a concussion should be monitored for a period following the injury (Complete Concussions, 2023).
Warning Signs
While most concussion symptoms are manageable, certain “red flag” symptoms can indicate a more serious brain injury, such as a skull fracture or brain bleed. These warning signs include loss of consciousness, worsening headache, repeated vomiting, seizures, slurred speech, and increasing confusion. If any of these red flags are present, immediate medical attention is required. These symptoms are less common but are critical to recognize for the safety of the individual (Complete Concussions, 2023).
Conclusion
The symptoms of concussion are wide-ranging and can affect various aspects of an individual’s health. While physical symptoms like headache and dizziness are common, cognitive, emotional, and sleep disturbances are also prevalent. Recognizing these symptoms early on is crucial for proper management and treatment. Healthcare providers must carefully assess both the physical and cognitive symptoms to guide treatment and recovery.
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References
Complete Concussions. (2023). What you need to know about concussions. Retrieved from https://completeconcussions.com
Patricios, J., et al. (2023). Concussion symptoms and management strategies. British Journal of Sports Medicine, 57(11).
Schneider, K. J., Meeuwisse, W. H., Nettel-Aguirre, A., Barlow, K., Boyd, L., Kang, J., et al. (2014). Cervicovestibular rehabilitation in sport-related concussion: A randomized controlled trial. British Journal of Sports Medicine, 48(17), 1294-1298. https://doi.org/10.1136/bjsports-2013-093360
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