Concussion | Hattiesburg Clinic

Concussion Overview

A concussion is a traumatic brain injury caused by a bump, blow or jolt to the head or by an impact on the body that causes the brain to move rapidly back and forth. Each year, there are more than 3.8 million sports-related concussions in the United States — and many others that occur due to accidents or mishaps in daily life.

The movement of the brain within the skull caused by a concussion damages brain cells and temporarily disrupts the brain’s normal function.

While most concussions are not life-threatening, the injury should be taken seriously. Anyone who experiences a concussion should seek care from a provider with specialized training.

Symptoms of a Concussion

Because a concussion should be treated promptly after the head injury occurs, you should learn to recognize the signs and symptoms that one has occurred.

Many times, the person who experiences the head injury will not see or notice the symptoms on his or her own. During sporting events and in other settings, it is important for spectators and coaches to watch closely for the symptoms of a concussion, particularly after a physical impact, such as a tackle.

Symptoms of a concussion may include:

Changes in mood or behavior
Clumsiness
Confusion
Difficulties with light or noise
Dizziness or problems with balance
Headache
Inability to recall events prior to or after the impact
Loss of consciousness
Memory or concentration problems
Nausea or vomiting
Slowed response to answer questions
Sluggishness, haziness, or grogginess
Vision problems

Anyone experiencing these symptoms should be carefully observed and taken for emergency medical treatment if the symptoms worsen or other symptoms emerge. Certain symptoms, such as having one pupil larger than the other or an inability to wake up, can be a sign of a hematoma and require immediate medical care.

Concussion Treatment

Every person experiences head injuries, including concussions, differently. Because of that, a treatment plan for a concussion will vary depending on a number of factors, including the patient’s overall health and symptoms.

The primary treatment for concussion is rest, which requires cutting back on both physical and cognitive activities for a period of time. Over time, activities can gradually resume.

If you experience a concussion, a Hattiesburg Clinic sports medicine specialist can provide you with a personalized treatment plan, which will include post-concussion care and a return-to-activity protocol.

Why Choose Hattiesburg Clinic?

Hattiesburg Clinic specialists are here not simply to diagnose and treat concussions — we are also committed to helping prevent them in our community. Our athletic trainers work to educate coaches and parents about the prevention of concussions, as well as how to identify a concussion when one occurs. We also offer on-field concussion evaluations and a multidisciplinary concussion care program, including a return-to-activity protocol.

Concussion Care

Concussion Overview

Symptoms of a Concussion

Concussion Treatment

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Why Choose Hattiesburg Clinic?

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