Concussions
A concussion is a brain injury that changes the way the brain works. It is caused by an hit to the head, face or neck, or hit to the body that shakes the head and causes the brain to move quickly within the skull.
Facts:
From (2016 - 2018), 1,421 people visited the emergency department in Brantford/Brant county because of concussions
Concussions can cause a number of different signs and symptoms such as dizziness, headaches and irritability
Only a medical doctor or nurse practitioner can diagnose a concussion
Most people who can have a concussion do not lose consciousness
Children and youth are more likely to get a concussion. This age group also takes longer to recover
A concussion cannot be seen or diagnosed by x-rays or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scans
Helmets don't prevent concussions; no protective equipment does! Protective equipment can help reduce the risk and severity of injuries, such as skull fractures
Baseline testing is not required for post injury care of young athletes with a suspected or diagnosed concussion
What to Do: Recovering from a Concussion
Recovery from a concussion is a gradual process and can take a long time - weeks, months or sometimes years. Recovery depends on how severe the concussion is
Talk to your medical doctor or nurse practitioner about developing a gradual and individualized plan to return to normal activities such as school, sports and work.
