Sports Concussions
About Sports Concussions
A startling number of concussions—nearly half—go undiagnosed, highlights research from the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center. At Advanced Sports Medicine in Nashville, Dr. Jim Johnson recognizes the urgency in concussion care and strives to minimize their long-term effects. Remember, the sooner you seek treatment after a head injury, the greater your chances of a complete recovery. Don’t hesitate to reach out to Advanced Sports Medicine today for expert concussion evaluation and management.
A concussion, essentially a brain bruise, results from a forceful impact to the head, causing the brain to shake within the skull. Sports injuries, car accidents, and falls are common culprits. Left untreated, concussions can have devastating, long-term consequences for brain health.
Alarmingly, many concussions don’t present with obvious symptoms. It’s possible to have a concussion without even realizing it. Therefore, Dr. Johnson strongly advises seeking a thorough evaluation at Advanced Sports Medicine after any head injury, no matter how minor it may seem.
Recognizing the warning signs of a concussion is paramount to ensuring prompt and proper care for this serious brain injury. Symptoms can vary widely, but may include:
• Headache
• Nausea
• Ringing in the ears
• Blurred vision
• Drowsiness
• Vomiting
• Dizziness
• Brain fog
• Confusion
• Slurred speech
• Delayed response
• Forgetfulness
Additional symptoms like sensitivity to light, sleep disturbances, and changes in taste or smell may also occur. It’s crucial to understand that concussion symptoms can persist for days or even weeks. If you suspect you or someone you know has sustained a concussion, seeking immediate medical attention is critical.
The most common cause of a concussion is a forceful blow to the head. Normally, cerebrospinal fluid acts as a protective cushion for your brain, shielding it from harm. However, a sudden impact can jar the brain, causing it to collide with the inside of your skull. This can lead to significant damage to the brain’s delicate tissues.
Dr. Johnson, a certified ImPACT® concussion consultant and former United States Air Force surgeon, has extensive experience diagnosing and treating concussions resulting from a wide array of incidents, including sports injuries, car accidents, falls, and other unforeseen accidents. His expertise ensures that you receive the most comprehensive and up-to-date care for your concussion.
When diagnosing a concussion, Dr. Johnson takes a comprehensive approach. He begins by thoroughly questioning you about your symptoms and reviewing your medical history to gain a comprehensive understanding of your condition. Additionally, he may conduct a full cognitive assessment, along with vision and hearing screenings.
To evaluate your physical capabilities, Dr. Johnson will also assess your balance, coordination, strength, and reflexes. These tests provide valuable insights into the impact of the concussion on your motor skills and neurological function.
In some cases, Dr. Johnson may also order advanced imaging scans, such as magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), to obtain a detailed view of your brain and assess its activity.
With his expertise and commitment to timely intervention, Dr. Johnson is equipped to diagnose and treat concussions promptly, minimizing their potential long-term effects on your physical and cognitive abilities.
The treatment for a concussion is tailored to its severity. Dr. Johnson may recommend a combination of the following:
• Pain relievers: These can help manage any discomfort you might experience.
• Activity modifications: You’ll likely need to temporarily adjust your daily routine and avoid strenuous activities.
• Rest: Giving your brain ample time to heal is crucial.
• Physical therapy: In some cases, physical therapy can assist in managing concussion symptoms and supporting your recovery.
Remember, complete physical and mental rest is essential for concussion recovery. Avoiding bright lights, loud noises, and excessive screen time can help minimize symptoms and accelerate healing. Dr. Johnson will provide specific guidance and recommendations based on your individual needs and the severity of your concussion.
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