Injuries of the brain can be complex and difficult to diagnose. The nature of them is quite serious and effective diagnosis and targeted treatment is crucial.
As experienced physicians with an in-depth knowledge of concussion treatment, the team at Spine Center Atlanta shares here some important facts about concussions and other types of head injuries you need to know.
Concussions Defined
Concussions are traumatic brain injuries that affect brain function. If you’ve been injured and are feeling dizzy, can’t think straight, can’t sleep normally, have brain fog, or are nauseous, you may have a concussion. Symptoms can also include headaches, memory, balance, and coordination. Concussions differ from head injuries in that they negatively impact cognitive function rather than just causing head pain.
How Concussions Differ from Head Injuries
Any trauma to the head has the potential to cause brain injury. However, when the brain moves around inside the skull, causing a concussion, this can have much more serious consequences and requires specialized treatment. Other types of head injuries, such as mild bumps, bruises, or cuts to the head, have different treatment protocols.
Concussion Causes
According to the Mayo Clinic, most concussions are the result of falling. Other causes are a surprise blow to the head or body that “rattles” the brain, like car accidents or sports injuries.
Concussion Testing & Diagnosis
At Spine Center Atlanta, we use the most advanced diagnostic systems to confirm a concussion, including MRI/DTI scans, balance tracking, ImPact testing, and videonystagmogrophy. These tools tell us how significant the brain trauma is so we can create a personalized treatment plan for your specific injury.
Common Concussion Symptoms We Treat
– Headaches
– Memory Loss
– Confusion
– Dizziness
– Loss of Balance
– Seizures
– Vision Problems
– Brain Fog
– Insomnia
Concussion FAQs
Q: How long does it take to recover from a concussion?
A: As with anything else, it varies from person to person. Most recover within a couple of weeks, but some have lingering symptoms that require a longer treatment journey.
Q: Do you lose sleep with a concussion?
A: Disrupted sleep patterns are not out of the ordinary. Some patients find they sleep more than usual, while others can’t find sleep at all. Seeking professional treatment can help.
Q: What are the biggest risks of a concussion?
A: If treatment isn’t started quickly after the injury, the recovery time may be longer, changes to brain function may occur, and you are at a greater risk of post-concussion syndrome.
Q: How long after hitting your head are you safe from concussion?
A: Even if you feel fine after head trauma, a concussion can still develop over the next 24-48 hours. If you notice any signs of a concussion, seek medical help immediately.
Conclusion
Knowing the difference between a mild head injury and a possible concussion is crucial to getting proper treatment and avoiding a longer treatment time, as well as disruptions to brain function. Keep watch for the typical signs of a concussion and seek medical attention quickly if they develop.
Call Us for Top-Tier Concussion Treatment & Care in Atlanta
Spine Center Atlanta stands at the forefront of comprehensive concussion treatment and care. Our personalized diagnosis and treatment plans will help you recover quickly and get back to doing all the things you enjoy.
Our multidisciplinary team of specialists has clinical expertise in neurology and a dedication to providing the exceptional care you deserve.
Contact Us
Discover why Spine Center Atlanta is the trusted choice for concussion treatment and care in Atlanta. Contact our knowledgeable team today for more information or to schedule a private assessment.