Dr Byan Betty: Recognising concussion
Saturday Morning with Jack Tame · Newstalk ZB
December 2, 20225m 29s
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Show Notes
What is concussion?
- Mild brain injury
- Bump or blow to head – for example Falls, contact sport, car accidents, previous concussion.
- Can interfere with brain function and may or may not be associated with loss of consciousness
Why does it occur?
- Brain like jelly – shakes or bounces around in the hard skull, causing minor injury
- Can cause bleeding within the skull – small or large.
- Can be cumulative – recurrent concussions – may in some cases longer term damage.
How do we recognise?
- Affects brain function for short period of time.
- Immediate: dazed, confused, vomits, loss consciousness, poor balance,
- Longer term: headache continues, fatigue, poor concentration.
- Certainly more serious: drowsy, fit, slurrrd speech.
How do we treat?
- Most recover within 2 weeks. Children 4 weeks.
- Brain needs to rest – toughing it out or ignoring symptoms can make worse, Immediate rest 48 hours, Avoid loud music, screens, hard physical activity, alcohol.
- Return to work or sports activity once fully recovered – often hard for sports people to accept.
- If return before fully recovered- increased risk of second concussion which can be serious.
Other things to watch out for?
- Symptoms worsening see a doctor as soon as possible.
- If persist more than 3-4 weeks long concussion syndrome – specialist support.
- Important any concussion reviewed with your Doctor.
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