From Sports to Falls: Understanding the Causes of Concussions
According to CDC estimates, 1.6-3.8 m sports and recreation related concussions occur each year in the U.S.. In 2020, 12.2% of children aged 12–17 years old had experienced symptoms of a concussion or brain injury at some point in their life. From falls, sports collisions, to car crashes, understanding the causes of concussions is important for awareness, prevention, and treatment.
In this post, I will explore the different causes of concussions and look at the underlying causes that lead to these brain injuries. Whether you're an athlete or not, knowing the potential risks and how to recognize the signs of a concussion can make a significant difference in your recovery journey.
I address common misconceptions surrounding concussions and separate facts from fiction. By understanding the cause and effects of concussions, you'll be equipped with the knowledge to protect yourself and your loved ones.
What is a concussion?
A concussion is an injury to the brain that results in temporary loss of normal brain function. A concussion is when someone's brain function temporarily changes because of a physical injury. This can affect their mental state or how conscious they are. Direct trauma to the head, such as falling, getting hit, or being in an accident, can cause concussions. They can also occur as a result of rapid acceleration-deceleration of the head. This is a rapid back and forth movement of your head, such as in whiplash injuries or blast injuries, like in a war zone. In most cases, people do not lose consciousness with concussions.
Common causes of concussions in sports
Sports-related concussions are all too common, affecting athletes of all ages and skill levels. Concussions in sports are becoming more prevalent and the top sports for concussions might surprise you.
Football
Soccer
Basketball
Volleyball
Wrestling
While concussions in sports can occur at any age, certain age groups may be more vulnerable to these injuries. Youth athletes, for example, have developing brains that are more vulnerable to the effects of concussions. Young children may not be able to communicate their symptoms effectively, making it essential for parents and coaches to be vigilant.
As athletes progress into their teens and adulthood, the risks and consequences of concussions remain present. College athletes, in particular, face unique pressures and demands, often leading to increased risks of concussions. It is important for universities and sports organizations to prioritize athlete safety by implementing proper protocols and providing adequate medical support.
Common Concussion Signs and Symptoms:
Confusion
Headache
Vision disturbances (double or blurry vision)
Dizziness or imbalance
Nausea or vomiting
Memory loss
Ringing ears
Difficulty concentrating
Sensitivity to light
Loss of smell or taste
Trouble falling asleep
Headache or “pressure” in head.
Nausea or vomiting.
Balance problems or dizziness, or double or blurry vision.
Bothered by light or noise.
Feeling sluggish, hazy, foggy, or groggy.
Confusion, or concentration or memory problems.
Just not “feeling right,” or “feeling down”.
Signs and symptoms generally show up soon after the injury. But, you may not know how serious the injury is at first and some symptoms may not show up for hours or days. The CDC has a more information regarding facts about concussions, it’s incredibly informative and easy to read too!
Concussion Danger Signs:
One pupil larger than the other.
Drowsiness or inability to wake up.
A headache that gets worse and does not go away.
Slurred speech, weakness, numbness, or decreased coordination.
Repeated vomiting or nausea, convulsions or seizures (shaking or twitching)
SEEK MEDICAL CARE IF ANY OF THESE SIGNS OR SYMPTOMS APPEAR!
Understanding the effects of concussions
Concussions, even minor ones, can have long-term effects on one's health and well-being. While most people have a full recovery from a concussion, some may experience persistent symptoms. These symptoms can last for weeks, months, or even years. This condition called post-concussion syndrome (PCS), can include headaches, dizziness, cognitive difficulties, and mood changes.
Second impact syndrome happens when a second concussion happens before a person has fully recovered from the first one. This leads to severe and often deadly brain swelling. The impact is believed to induce vascular congestion, the swelling of tissues caused by increased blood flow to that area. This raises intracranial pressure quickly, and it may be challenging or impossible to control. Sports such as boxing, football, ice or roller hockey, soccer, baseball, basketball, and skiing have a greater risk of second-impact syndrome. The CDC reports an average of 1.5 deaths per year from sports concussions. In most cases, a concussion, usually undiagnosed, had occurred before the final one.
Also, repeated concussions can lead to a condition called chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE). CTE has been linked to progressive brain damage and cognitive decline. CTE has become talked about more in recent years. Especially about professional athletes who've had multiple concussions.
Steps to take when a concussion occurs
When a concussion occurs, it's critical to take immediate action to make the best possible outcome for the injured individual. The first step is to remove the person from the activity or situation that caused the injury to prevent further harm. This means removing an athlete from the field and following return to play guidelines. Rest is crucial in the early stages of recovery, both physically and cognitively. Rest is not required more than a day or two with most concussions.
Getting a medical evaluation is crucial to figure out how serious a concussion is and what treatment is necessary. The healthcare provider might suggest rehabilitation therapies. They may give instructions on how to get back to things like school or sports. Following these guidelines is important to prevent further injury and ensure a safe recovery.
Prevention strategies for concussions in sports
While it may not be possible to eliminate the risk of concussions entirely in sports, there are several prevention strategies that can significantly reduce the likelihood of these injuries. Proper training and technique are essential to minimize the risk of head impacts. Coaches and trainers should emphasize proper form and educate athletes on how to protect themselves during gameplay.
Additionally, enforcing rules and penalties for dangerous plays can discourage risky behavior and promote a safer environment for all participants. Sports organizations should also invest in high-quality protective equipment that is specifically designed to reduce the risk and severity of head injuries.
The importance of proper equipment in preventing concussions
When it comes to preventing concussions, having the right equipment is crucial. Helmets, mouth guards, and other protective gear can significantly reduce the risk of head injuries in sports. It's important to note that equipment alone is not enough. Proper fitting helmets and following safety standards are important to have proper protection.
Sports organizations and individuals should make it a top priority to invest in good-quality gear. This gear should meet industry safety standards and get tested on a regular basis. Checking and replacing equipment on a routine basis is a must to keep everyone safe and lower the chances of getting concussions.
Concussions outside of sports: slips, falls, and accidents
While concussions are often associated with sports, they can occur from other causes. Falls, workplace accidents, assault, and car accidents can all result in concussions. In fact, falls are the leading cause of concussions in older adults.
It's important to recognize that concussions can happen to anyone, regardless of age or physical activity level. Taking precautions to prevent falls and maintaining a safe environment helps reduce the risk of head injuries in everyday life.