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A Guide to Healing and Recovery
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This guide is provided by your physician and Origami Brain Injury Rehabilitation Specialists.
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W HAT IS A CON C U S SION ?
Also called a mild traumatic brain injury (MTBI), a concussion is caused when the brain receives trauma from a bump, blow or jolt to the head. Doctors may describe these injuries as “mild” because concussions are usually not life-threatening. Even so, their effects can be serious. Understanding the signs and symptoms of a concussion can help you get better more quickly. A concussion can be caused by: • direct blows to the head • gunshot wounds • violent shaking of the head • car crash • a sports injury • from a seemingly innocuous fall • when the head and upper body are shaken violently. • force from a whiplash type injury
A concussion is the most common type of traumatic brain injury
A person may or may not experience a brief loss of consciousness. A person may remain conscious, but feel dazed.
A concussion may or may not show up on a diagnostic imaging test, such as a CAT Scan. Skull fracture, brain bleeding, or swelling may or may not be present. It may take a few months to a few years for a concussion to heal. Brain injury specialists can decrease symptoms and healing time through rehabilitation treatments and services.
C AUS ES
About 75% of traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) that occur each year are concussions or other forms of mild traumatic brain injury (MTBI). An estimated 1.7 million people sustain a TBI annually in the United States. Falls are the leading cause of brain injury. Fall rates are highest for children aged 0 to 4 years and for adults aged 75 years and older. Children aged 0 to 4 years, older adolescents aged 15 to 19 years, and adults aged 65 years and older are most likely to sustain a TBI.
Traumatic Brain Injuries by Type
TBI rates are higher for males than for females.
SI GNS & S YM P TOMS
You may have had a concussion if you have any of following symptoms after an impact to the head, neck, or body
Blurry vision Memory loss – you’re unable to remember what happened before/after injury Headache
Feeling of pressure in the head
Dizziness or off-balance Nausea with or without vomiting Trouble concentrating or making even simple decisions
Feeling “foggy” or “out of it” Clumsiness – trouble with coordination and/or balance Feeling grouchy, irritable, or anxious for no reason Feeling more tired or sleepy than usual Mood or behavior changes
Sensitivity to light or noise
Ringing in the ears
SI GNS & S YM PTOMS
You may have had a concussion if you have any of following symptoms after an impact to the head, neck, or body.
Changes in sleep patterns
Sensitivity to sound
Nausea with or without Trouble concentrating or making even simple decisions vomiting
Dizziness Temporary loss of memory Feeling “foggy” or “out of it”
Such impairments can be helped by rehabilitation, however, individuals are often released from treatment without referrals to brain injury rehabilitation or guidance to resources.
Light sensitivity
Headache Ringing in the ears Feeling of pressure in the head Blurry Vision
Mood or behavior changes Irritability
DIAGN O S IS
Depending on symptoms, age, and the severity of the injury, the emergency department or a physician may order some tests including a brain scan. Testing can assess your learning and memory skills, your ability to pay attention or concentrate, and how quickly you can think and solve problems. These tests can help your doctor identify the effects of a concussion. Here are some of the most common: Neurological test– (also called a neuropsychological neurocognitive test). A basic neurological exam assesses motor and sensory skills, the functioning of one or more cranial nerves, hearing and speech, vision, coordination and balance, mental status, and changes in mood or behavior, among other abilities. CT scan– A CT is a special computerized x-ray that provides images of the brain and is sometimes used to look for suspected bleeding or swelling. MRI scan– A Magnetic Resonance Imaging test provides detailed pictures of the brain using magnetic energy instead of radiation.
Even if the concussion doesn’t show up on tests, you may still have a concussion There are a number of specialists who diagnose and treat concussions. Primary care provider (PCP) Prevents, diagnoses, and treats diseases. Neurologist Emergency Medicine Treats nervous system Treats patients in the disorders. emergency department. Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation (PM&R) Restores function and quality of life to those with physical disabilities.
Sports Medicine: Treats prevents sports and exercise related injuries.
Brain Rehabilitation Specialist Physical therapists, occupational therapists, and speech therapists, and psychologists.
Older adults & Concussions
DIAGN O S IS
Because concussions are often missed or misdiagnosed among older adults, be especially alert if you know that an older adult has fallen or has a fall-related injury, such as a hip fracture. Older adults may have a higher risk of serious complications from a concussion, such as bleeding on the brain. Headaches that get worse or increased confusion are signs of this complication. If they occur, see a doctor right away. Older adults often take blood thinners; if they do, they should be seen immediately by a health care provider if they have a bump or blow to the head or body even if they do not have any of the typical concussion symptoms.
Risk of Concussion Increases It’s important to know that after a concussion the brain is more sensitive to damage. So while you are recovering, be sure to avoid activities that might injure you again.
Risk of Second Injury
8X
’s greater
3X
’s greater
Risk of Third Injury
In rare cases, concussions cause more serious problems. Repeated concussions or a severe concussion may lead to long-lasting problems with movement, learning, or speaking. Because of the small chance of serious problems, it is important to contact a doctor if you or someone you know has symptoms of a concussion.
TR EATM E NT
Rest is no longer considered the best approach to concussion care. Early intervention makes a difference. Rest is no longer considered the best approach to concussion care. Research shows that early intervention of various therapies can significantly improve recovery. Through a thorough assessment and the right treatment approach, trained healthcare practitioners can help you get back to doing what you love! Treatment approaches may include: whiplash therapy; vestibular rehabilitation; visual rehabilitation; diet and nutrition; exercise therapy; or education and reassurance. Find a concussion rehab center near you for an assessment. It can take several weeks to an appointment with a neurologist appointment. Don’t wait to get started in your recovery process. You can begin treatment BEFORE the neurology appointment. Brain injury rehabilitation specialists can assist with treatment and symptoms.
RECOVERY - CONCUSSION REHABILITATION There are many people who can help you and your family as you recover from a concussion. You do not have to do it alone. Ask your doctor about whether you need specialized treatment and about the availability of rehabilitation programs. Your doctor can help you find a health care provider who has special training in treating concussion. Early treatment of symptoms by a specialist may speed recovery. Your doctor may refer you to a neuropsychologist, neurologist, or specialist in rehabilitation. Keep talking with your doctor, family members, and loved ones about how you are feeling, both physically and emotionally. If you do not think you are getting better, tell your doctor
Family Physician:
R ESO UR CES
Telephone:
Neurologist: Telephone:
Concussion
Rehabilitation Specialists: Telephone:
Contact Origami Brain Injury Rehabilitation Center for a complimentary concussion assessment. 517-336-6060 info@OrigamiRehab.org Origami Brain Injury Rehabilitation Center is a CARF accredited, non-profit organization. Origami’s dynamic and innovative treatment team is committed to providing clients and their families with a holistic approach to recovery from a concussion to severe brain injury. At Origami, we address the cognitive, physical, spiritual, psychosocial, and behavioral challenges following brain injury from a holistic, educational perspective. A Partner Of
3181 Sandhill Rd. Mason www.OrigamiRehab.org
Michigan 48854 517-336-6060