What Causes A Concussion?
When you hit your head very hard, your brain can crash against your skull, harming delicate brain tissue. Most concussions come from participating in a sport, however a variety of accidents can cause a dangerous blow. It’s important to know the signs and symptoms. Seek medical treatment immediately if you feel that you or a family member has a concussion. Certain symptoms are felt instantly, while others take some time to before they’re noticed.
Some symptoms that can be felt immediately:
- Blurry or double vision
- Loss of consciousness
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Headache
- Confusion
- Drowsiness
Other symptoms that can be noticed days or months later:
- Difficulty concentrating and remembering
- Emotional changes
Most symptoms last from two weeks to a month, while others can remain for several months. However, if a concussion goes undiagnosed, you can be at risk for permanent brain damage.
Call 866-GUTHRIE (866-488-4743) today to make an appointment.
How are Concussions Diagnosed?
Concussions can happen at any age. We sometimes use what is called ImPACT testing for athletes to help diagnose a potential concussion. ImPACT is a computerized test that an athletic trainer, school nurse or team doctor can perform. The test is recommended every two years. In the event that you suffer a new concussion, we review and compare the previous results of your ImPACT testing to identify any potential changes or damage.
We will also perform a physical exam and decide if other images are needed of your brain through an MRI or CT scan.
To schedule an appointment, call 866-GUTHRIE (866-488-4743).
How Do We Treat Concussions?
Every person is unique, however medication can be prescribed to help with any nausea or pain, along with general rest and activity restriction. We’ll determine recommendations on when you should return back to normal activities in order to give your brain proper recovery time. Ice can be applied to bumps to reduce pain and decrease swelling.
Guthrie Concussion Care
Preventative education is also important to us so you’ll have the knowledge on how to keep yourself healthy and safe, long after your last visit with us. We offer sports medicine services in several convenient locations including Corning, N.Y., Big Flats, N.Y., Ithaca, N.Y., Cortland, N.Y. and Sayre, Pa. Guthrie also offers athletic training services in Steuben, Chemung and Bradford, Pa., as well as Tioga County, N.Y., high schools.
Call 866-GUTHRIE (866-488-4743) to schedule an appointment.
Sports injuries can limit or prevent you from competing at your best. Learn how our leading sports medicine team helps keep you healthy and at peak performance.
Vision therapy is an important step in concussion recovery. Ask your provider if a referral to Occupational Therapy/Visual-Based Rehabilitation is appropriate.
