Concussions are not uncommon especially among those who enjoy active lifestyles. In fact, they are frequently associated with sports-related injuries. However, not all concussions are the same. Some are mild and require little medical attention while others can be life-threatening if left untreated. Therefore it is important to know when to seek help. In this blog post, we will explore the signs and symptoms of a concussion that require immediate attention and how chiropractors and physiotherapists can help.
1) Loss of consciousness: If you suffer a concussion and experience loss of consciousness, even for a brief moment, this is a major red flag. Loss of consciousness indicates that your brain has sustained significant trauma and requires emergency medical attention. If unconsciousness lasts for more than a minute, you should seek emergency medical attention immediately.
2) Memory loss: Another significant sign of a serious concussion is memory loss. Forgetting events that led up to the injury, or not remembering what happened immediately after the incident could be a sign of a serious concussion. If you experience this, it is essential to seek medical attention as soon as possible. A physiotherapist can help you assess the extent of the injury and create a course of treatment.
3) Severe headache: A headache is a common symptom of a concussion. However, if you experience a severe headache that worsens over time, and takes longer than usual to go away after taking medication, with a possible increase in this symptom depending on the stage of the concussion. this is a sign that your concussion is serious and needs immediate medical attention.
4) Slurred speech and weakness: Another significant sign of a serious concussion is slurred speech and weakness of the limbs. These symptoms indicate that the injury has affected your brain stem, which is responsible for regulating vital functions such as breathing and heart rate. If you experience these symptoms, it is essential to seek medical attention immediately.
5) How chiropractors and physiotherapists can help: Chiropractors and physiotherapists can help you recover from a concussion. They can perform a thorough physical examination to assess your injury and create a personalized treatment plan. Treatment options include Manual treatments, exercises, and spinal manipulation. These treatments can improve range of motion, decrease inflammation, and promote healing.
In conclusion, concussions are a serious form of brain injury and require immediate medical attention if certain symptoms are experienced. It is crucial to seek professional help right away if you experience any of the red flags mentioned above. Chiropractors and physiotherapists can help you in your road to recovery by creating an individualized treatment plan that caters to your specific needs, informing you about specific things to avoid with a concussion, therefore reducing the longevity of a concussion. Remember, don’t wait to seek help; early medical attention can significantly improve your outcomes.
If you have any questions or would like to explore further, please book a free, no-charge online appointment with either myself, Dr. Tyler Baron, BASc, DC or another Kitchener chiropractor at CARESPACE. We are happy to listen and are here to help!
