There is a growing concern in Australia and internationally about the incidence of sport-related concussions and the potential health ramifications. A concussion is a brain injury, a complex physiological process that affects the brain, induced by external forces. Trauma may be caused by a direct or indirect blow to the head, face, neck or body, causing an impulsive force transmitted to the head.
Concussion involves short-lived impairment of neurological function and is an evolving injury that may change over hours to days. In most adults, symptoms are typically resolved within the initial fourteen days of injury.
If managed appropriately, most symptoms and signs of concussion resolve spontaneously. However, complications can occur, including prolonged symptoms and increased susceptibility to further injury.
Diagnosing a concussion can be tricky, but it is critical to manage and prevent further injury correctly. Diagnosis relies on the clinical assessment of symptoms and signs. The signs of concussion vary and may be challenging to detect. Concussion symptoms can be very subtle and may present as nothing more than the athlete reporting that they do not ‘feel right. Concussed athletes often report these symptoms:
- visual disturbance
- feeling ‘foggy’, sluggish or slow
- having sensitivity to light or noise
- may have head pain or feel dizzy
For more information call
1300 667 443 to book an appointment or take the head injury test.
