Abstract
Concussions are one of the most common sports injuries, especially with contact sports such as football and soccer. They are defined as a mild traumatic brain injury that affects brain function. Common symptoms include headache, dizziness, nausea, light or noise sensitivity, mood changes, imbalance, sleep disturbances, and memory issues. Health professionals can conduct neurologic and cognitive tests to properly diagnose an athlete. Although the concussion itself cannot be treated, there are ways to manage the symptoms and speed up recovery. Physical and cognitive rest remain the mainstay of treatment, but progressive aerobic training programs are gaining popularity. In addition, medications can be used to treat certain symptoms such as sleep disturbances and headaches. Cold therapy and deep breathing exercises are newer concussion recovery approaches being considered.
Recommended Citation
Kwan, C. Heads up: concussion safety. BUHealth. 2024; 2(1). https://digitalcommons.butler.edu/buhealth/vol2/iss1/5.