Effective concussion care begins with understanding that a concussion is a type of traumatic brain injury caused by a direct blow to the head, face, neck, or body that results in a rapid movement of the brain within the skull. While concussions are often associated with sports, they can also occur due to falls, road accidents, and workplace incidents. Recognising and responding to a concussion promptly is crucial to prevent further complications, including long-term cognitive impairments or more severe brain injuries.
In Australia, concussions are a significant concern, particularly sport-related concussion in contact sports. With over 3.9 million Australians participating in organised sports annually, understanding concussion care is more important than ever. By learning urgent first aid actions, you can help safeguard someone’s wellbeing when they experience a concussion.
Understanding Concussions
A concussion is a type of mild traumatic brain injury (TBI) caused by a bump, blow, or jolt to the head, or by a hit to the body that causes the head and brain to move rapidly back and forth.
This sudden movement can cause the brain to bounce or twist inside the skull, stretching and damaging brain cells and requiring proper concussion care.
Concussions can result from various incidents, including:
- Falls
- Sports accidents
- Motor vehicle crashes
- Assaults
Signs and Symptoms of Concussion
Concussions can manifest with a variety of symptoms. Immediate recognition of these signs can help prevent further complications.
Early symptoms:
- Headache or pressure in the head
- Dizziness or balance issues
- Confusion or disorientation
- Sensitivity to light and noise
Delayed symptoms:
- Nausea or vomiting
- Difficulty concentrating or memory issues
- Fatigue or drowsiness
- Mood changes such as irritability or sadness
Recognising these symptoms is essential for effective concussion care, as delayed treatment can increase the risk of long-term complications.
Risk Factors and Vulnerable Groups
Certain groups are more vulnerable to concussions due to their activities or age. In Australia, these include:
- Athletes: Particularly those involved in playing sport, especially rugby, AFL and boxing.
- Children: With developing brains, children are more susceptible to concussions and may recover more slowly.
- Elderly individuals: Prone to falls, which can result in head injuries.
By understanding these risks, you can better identify and respond to potential concussions in your community.
Immediate First Aid Actions for a Suspected Concussion
Step 1 – Assess the Scene for Safety
Before providing assistance, ensure the environment is safe. For instance, if the incident occurs on a busy rugby field or near workplace machinery, ensure the injured person and yourself are not at risk of further harm.
Step 2 – Check for Concussion Symptoms
Look for immediate signs such as confusion, slurred speech, or difficulty standing. Ask simple questions to gauge their mental state, such as “What day is it?” or “Where are we?”
Step 3 – Keep the Person Still and Comfortable
Encourage the injured person to remain seated or lying down to prevent further injury. Avoid moving their head or neck unless absolutely necessary, particularly if a spinal injury is suspected.
Step 4 – Monitor Their Condition Closely
Observe the person for any worsening symptoms, such as repeated vomiting, seizures, or a decline in consciousness. Keep them calm and reassure them while waiting for medical help.
Step 5 – Call for Medical Attention When Necessary
If the person loses consciousness, exhibits severe symptoms, or you’re uncertain about their condition, call triple zero (000) immediately. In Australia, paramedics are trained to assess and manage head injuries effectively, providing professional concussion care.
Tips for Concussion First Aid
What to Do While Waiting for Help
- Stay with the injured person and keep them calm.
- Provide reassurance that help is on the way.
- Apply an ice pack to the head to reduce swelling, but avoid direct pressure on the injury.
What Not to Do for a Concussion
- Don’t give strong painkillers: Medications like ibuprofen or aspirin can increase the risk of bleeding.
- Don’t allow physical activity: The person should avoid any activity that might worsen their symptoms.
- Don’t leave them alone: Monitor them closely until professional help arrives.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does concussion recovery typically take?
Most people recover from a concussion within 7-10 days, though recovery time can vary significantly. Children and teenagers may take 2-4 weeks to fully recover, while some individuals may experience symptoms for several months. Recovery depends on factors such as age, previous concussion history, and the severity of the injury.
Is it safe to sleep after a concussion?
It’s generally safe to sleep after a concussion, especially if several hours have passed since the injury and symptoms are mild. However, someone should check on the person every 2-3 hours during the first 24 hours to ensure they can be easily awakened and aren’t showing signs of deterioration such as severe confusion or vomiting.
When can someone return to normal activities after a concussion?
Return to activities should be gradual and symptom-guided. Light mental activities like reading can typically resume when symptoms begin to improve, usually within a few days. Physical activities and sports should only be resumed once completely symptom-free and with medical clearance. This step-by-step approach helps prevent re-injury and ensures proper brain healing.
