Concussion

Concussion (mild, traumatic brain injury) is a closed head injury due to a direct blow to the head or deceleration of the head from an impulsive force, resulting in a transient change in mental status.

Most common causes are motor vehicle accidents, sports, assaults, and falls.

Diagnosing concussion is difficult based on acute injury characteristics and presenting signs and symptoms.

Headache, mental slowing and fogginess, and memory difficulties are typical symptoms. Symptoms may fluctuate, but typically subside after 1 week to 1 month. Loss of consciousness is not necessary for a positive diagnosis.

Computed tomography scan and magnetic resonance imaging are typically normal in concussive injury.

For uncomplicated cases, physical and cognitive rest is usually sufficient.

Concussion (mild traumatic brain injury) is a closed head injury due to a direct blow to the head or deceleration of the head from an impulsive force that results in a change in mental status.[1]Holm L, Cassidy JD, Carroll LJ, et al. Summary of the WHO Collaborating Centre for Neurotrauma Task Force on mild traumatic brain injury. J Rehabil Med. 2005 May;37(3):137-41. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/16040469?tool=bestpractice.com Centers for Disease Control and Prevention: HEADSUP external link opens in a new window