Concussion

Preventing concussion

Source: NHS

In this topic (7)

There are a number ofcommonsense precautions you can take to reduce your risk of concussion.

These precautions include:

  • always wearing the recommended equipment when taking part in a contact sportsuch asrugby or boxing
  • making sure any contact sport you or your child are taking part in issupervised by a properly qualified and trained person
  • always wearing a seatbelt when driving
  • wearing a motorcycle helmet this is a legal requirement if you are riding a motorcycle in England
  • wearing a cycle helmetthis is not a legal requirement, but cycle helmets have been recommended by several leading organisations, such as the Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents

It is also easy to underestimate how many cases of concussion occur as the result of a Falls or slip at home or in the garden, especially in older people. Following some or all of thesuggestions below will help keep your home and garden as safe as possible.

  • keep stairways clear soyou do not trip over anything
  • use appropriate safety equipment if you're doing any kind of DIY
  • use appropriate equipment to change a light bulb, such as a stepladder
  • clean upspillages to prevent someone slipping

For more information,visit the Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents website.

Articles for Concussion

Causes of concussion

Concussion occurs when a blow or impact to the head causes a sudden disruption to part of the brain known as the reticular activating system (RAS).

Complications of concussion

Post-concussion syndrome (PCS) is the term used to describe a collection of symptoms that can last for several weeks or months after the concussion.

Diagnosing concussion

Concussion is often diagnosed in the accident and emergency (A&E) department, by a paramedic at the scene of an accident, or by another trained official.

Introduction

Concussion (minor traumatic brain injury) is the sudden but short-lived loss of mental function that occurs after a blow or other injury to the head.

Preventing concussion

There are a number of basic commonsense precautions you can take to reduce your risk of concussion.

Symptoms of concussion

Common symptoms of concussion include headache, nausea, loss of balance, memory loss and dizziness. Symptoms of concussion can be mild to severe.

Treating concussion

If there are no signs or symptoms that suggest a more serious brain injury has taken place, most cases of concussion can be treated at home.