Top 7 Symptoms of Concussion

A concussion is a brain injury resulting from a trauma disrupting normal brain function; it is usually caused by a strong hit to your body that forces the head to jerk in any direction. It is not a fatal condition. However, it requires medical attention. Here are the top 7 symptoms of concussion.

7. Headache

After hitting the head, the headache develops. It may take a few hours to days, but usually, it resolves with no problems. Just take your medications and rest. Headaches after concussions can begin anytime during the first week after the trauma and may last for 3 to 6 months. Post-concussion headaches are common among athletes. (1, 2, 3, 4)

6. Tinnitus

Tinnitus or ringing in the ears is a common symptom after concussions. Noise sensitivity after concussion lasts for a while according to the severity of the condition. Some people can tolerate noisy places while others do not. Your doctor should assess the damage. (5, 6, 7, 8, 9)

5. Nausea or Vomiting

Immediate, post-concussion vomiting can be a sign of a serious injury in the brain. Most people experience nausea and vomiting after concussions. They last for days to weeks. It can be associated with the headache, tinnitus, or both. (10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16)

4. Sleep Problems

Nearly half of post-concussion patients suffer from sleep problems; whether they sleep too much or do not sleep enough. Concussion may cause damages to areas facilitating sleep in the brain preventing it from its normal cycles. You should see a doctor if the problem persists. (17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23)

3. Hormonal Disturbance

Brain injuries are a common cause of the hormonal disturbance. A brain injury can lead to the pituitary gland and hypothalamus damages, which can lead to either inhibit or enhance the production of hormones. Fatigue after a concussion is usually associated with hypothyroidism or low cortisol levels. (24, 25, 26, 27, 28)

2. Depression and Anxiety

There are many reasons for depression and anxiety after a concussion. Chronic fatigue after a concussion can lead to depression. The brain trauma itself may cause changes affecting mental and psychological health. Anxiety is also common. Some patients may lose their ability to handle their anxiety in public. (29, 30, 31, 32, 33, 34, 35)

1. Vision Problems

Vision problems after a concussion can be the underlying cause of headaches and chronic fatigue. Post-concussion patients may suffer from the inability to read or work on their laptops leading to eye fatigue and headaches. (36, 37, 38, 39, 40, 41, 42)