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- September 13, 2020
YOUR CONCUSSION QUESTIONS ANSWERED
We regularly assess and treat concussions in our clinic and we often hear the same questions around what a concussion looks like, how it is diagnosed, and what to do once you have one. If you or someone you know is dealing with a concussion or if they think they may have a concussion, here are a few of the most common questions that we get asked.
CONCUSSION - FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
DO I NEED AN MRI OR CT SCAN TO DIAGNOSE A CONCUSSION?
No, an MRI or CT scan can’t actually diagnose a concussion but may be performed if your physician is concerned about internal bleeding or fractures.
DO YOU HAVE TO LOSE CONSCIOUSNESS TO HAVE A CONCUSSION?
No, concussions range for mild to severe. Sometimes a concussion can occur from a smaller impact on your head.
DO YOU HAVE TO HIT YOUR HEAD TO HAVE A CONCUSSION?
No, most concussions are caused by a direct blow to the head but they can also be caused by an abrupt body movement that causes the head to move forward or backward quickly. An example of this would be a whiplash injury.
IS IT TRUE YOU SHOULDN'T SLEEP AFTER HAVING A HEAD INJURY BELIEVED TO BE A CONCUSSION?
False, sleeping after a concussion is actually helpful and can help speed up recovery as your brain needs to rest. It is recommended to rest for 24-48 hours then begin reintegrating activities of daily living that do not increase symptoms.
WILL HELMETS AND MOUTHGUARDS PREVENT A CONCUSSION?
Unfortunately, there is no consistent evidence showing that they can prevent concussions, but that does not mean we shouldn’t be wearing them while participating in activities that require or recommend them. Any protection is better than no protection.
WHEN CAN YOU RETURN TO PLAY?
To return to play you must be symptom-free. There is usually a period of time where you are slowly reintroducing activity to make sure there is no increase in symptoms with certain activities (ie: walking, then running, then sprinting, etc.).
I DON’T PLAY SPORTS, CAN I GO RIGHT BACK TO WORK?
It is just as important to monitor symptoms while returning to work or school as it is to return to sport. It is important to gradually return to work or school to make sure there is not an increase in symptoms. This is where physiotherapy or your family physician can help with modifications in your tasks or work hours.
IS IT NORMAL TO BE MORE ANXIOUS OR IRRITABLE FOLLOWING A CONCUSSION?
Yes, many people experience anxiety or irritability as a post-concussion syndrome symptom.
HOW LONG DO CONCUSSIONS LAST?
The duration of a concussion varies depending on the severity of the injury, concussion injury, appropriate after concussion care. Typically 5-10 days but they can last months.
If you still have questions about concussions, don’t hesitate to reach out to your local healthcare provider. Physiotherapists are a great resource for testing and treatment of concussions – and for answering those common concussion questions.
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