How Does a Concussion Affect Your Brain?
A concussion is a mild traumatic brain injury that interferes with normal brain function. A concussion can result from a violent jolt or blow to the head. Our orthopedic doctor in Ho-Ho-Kus, NJ can analyze and diagnose concussion symptoms. At New York Sports Medicine Institute, we can teach you how to slowly return to doing the activities you love after experiencing a concussion.
How Does a Concussion Affect Your Brain?
A single concussion won’t cause permanent brain damage; however, brain function can be temporarily altered. Nerves and blood vessels become stretched and bruised due to trauma, which causes this temporary loss of brain function. If multiple concussions occur throughout your lifetime, structural changes in the brain can occur. The effects a concussion puts on your brain can last for days, weeks, or months depending on the severity of the concussion. Our orthopedic doctor in Ho-Ho-Kus, NJ can evaluate your concussion and show you how to manage it.
Who Is at Risk of a Concussion?
Adolescents are most susceptible to obtaining a concussion because their brains are still developing. In addition, adolescents’ necks are weaker than older aged people. Some other people who are at risk of a concussion include:
- Older people, due to their higher risk of falls
- Military personnel, due to exposure to dangerous devices
- People involved in a car accident
- Anyone who has previously had a concussion
Symptoms of a Concussion
Concussions occur when your brain bounces or experiences movement inside your skull. This movement damages brain cells, leading to chemical changes. The following signs and symptoms can result:
- Confusion
- Dizziness/lightheadedness
- Double or blurry vision
- Headache
- Irritability, nervousness, or anxiety
- Loss of consciousness
- Memory loss
- Nausea/vomiting
- Ringing in the ears
- Sensitivity to light and noise
- Tiredness
- Trouble concentrating
If you are experiencing any of these signs after a hit to the head, it is advised to see our orthopedic doctor in Ho-Ho-Kus, NJ for medical attention.
How Is a Concussion Diagnosed By An Orthopedic Doctor in Ho-Ho-Kus, NJ?
Our specialist will ask you about the event leading to your head injury and your symptoms to diagnose a concussion. A neurological exam will also be performed to test the following:
- Balance and coordination
- Hearing
- Neck muscle function
- Neurological function and reflexes
- Strength
- Vision and reaction to light
We will then test your thinking ability, problem-solving skills, and memory. Imaging tests can be ordered for more severe cases of concussion. CT scans or MRIs will determine bleeding, brain swelling, or a spinal cord or cervical spine injury.
Treatment of a Concussion: orthopedic doctor in Ho-Ho-Kus, NJ
To fully recover after a concussion, you’ll need to physically and mentally rest. You should rest and sleep more than you usually do to restore brain functionality, but too much rest can make you more sensitive to activities when you return to them. Our orthopedic doctor in Ho-Ho-Kus, NJ will tell you to return to activities as your symptoms improve slowly. However, be cautious to stop activity if your symptoms get worse. The following actions can worsen symptoms:
- Listening to loud music
- Texting/spending time on a screen
- Physical activity
- Playing video games
- Reading
- Watching television
How Long Does It Take To Recover From a Concussion
A concussion’s recovery time varies from person to person. In most cases, concussion symptoms resolve within two to three weeks. However, undiagnosed or poorly treated concussions can last even longer. That is why it is essential to see our orthopedic doctor in Ho-Ho-Kus, NJ for concussion treatment as soon as possible.
How To Prevent a Concussion From Occurring
To reduce the risk of a concussion occurring in the first place, follow these tips:
- Wear a seatbelt in the car and place children in safety seats.
- Put up handrails on stairs to prevent falls.
- Wear the proper headgear when riding a bike or playing sports.
- Install safety gates for young children.
- Improve lighting and remove trip hazards.
- Strengthen your neck muscles to help absorb impact from blows to the head
Contact Our Facility: Orthopedic Doctor in Ho-Ho-Kus, NJ
Concussions can impair brain function, so it is important to rest and follow the appropriate steps for a full recovery. Our orthopedic doctor in Ho-Ho-Kus, NJ can diagnose your concussion and give you the proper advice. At New York Sports Medicine Institute, we take head injuries seriously and provide treatment. Contact us today!