CNS - Concussion Flashcards
What is the most common and least severe type of brain injury?
Concussion
Should concussions be taken lightly despite being the least severe brain injury?
No, they should not be taken lightly.
What are common mechanisms of concussion?
Traumatic force to the head or acceleration/deceleration situations.
What are the most common causes of concussion?
• Sports injuries (responsible for over 50%, especially in ages 16–34)
• Falls
• Car accidents
• Bicycle accidents
• Assaults
Is concussion more common in males or females?
A bit more common in males, even after accounting for activity differences.
What increases a person’s risk for another concussion?
A previous history of concussion.
What effect does concussion have on the brain’s neurons?
It alters neuron metabolism and excitability, causing impaired neurotransmission, ion deregulation, energy use disruption, and reduced cerebral blood flow.
What neurotransmitter activity happens after a concussion?
Excitatory neurotransmitters are released, leading to a state of brain hypermetabolism.
How long can the brain remain in a hypermetabolic state after a concussion?
Seven to ten days.
Why is the brain particularly vulnerable after a concussion?
Because of its hypermetabolic state, it is more susceptible to re-injury during this period.
Is concussion a diffuse or focal brain injury?
It is considered a diffuse brain injury, meaning dysfunction occurs over a widespread area rather than a specific spot.
Are the metabolic changes following a concussion usually reversible?
Yes, in the large majority of brain cells, but a small number may die.
What did the Concussion in Sport Group (2001) conclude about concussion?
That concussion may result in neuropathological changes, but acute symptoms mostly reflect functional disturbances, not structural injury.
What are the common physical symptoms of a concussion?
• Headache (main symptom; can last 2+ weeks)
• Dizziness/light-headedness
• Impaired coordination or balance
• Nausea and/or vomiting
• Fatigue/lethargy
• Insomnia
• Sensitivity to noise or light
• Tinnitus
• Diplopia or blurred vision
• Decreased taste, smell, or hearing
• Concussive convulsions (not seizures)
What are the common emotional symptoms of a concussion?
• Irritability, crankiness, restlessness
• Anxiety
• Depression
• Lack of emotion
• Mood swings/emotional lability
• Poor stress tolerance
• Alcohol intolerance
• Aggression
What are the common cognitive symptoms of a concussion?
• Memory deficits
• Confusion or impaired cognition
• Impaired judgment
• Slower cognitive processing
• Difficulty with abstract thinking
• Difficulty concentrating
• Decrease in work performance
• Decrease in social skills
How long do concussion symptoms typically last?
On average, a few days to a week, though duration varies greatly.
What are the Cantu Guidelines for grading concussions?
• Grade I: No loss of consciousness, <30 minutes of post-traumatic amnesia
• Grade II: Loss of consciousness <5 minutes or amnesia lasting 30 minutes to 24 hours
• Grade III: Loss of consciousness >5 minutes or amnesia lasting >24 hours
Does symptom severity always match the concussion grade?
No, the intensity and duration of symptoms do not always correlate with the grade.
What is the recommended treatment for concussion?
• Relaxation and stress reduction
• Daytime rest and long night sleep
• Good nutrition
• Avoidance of alcohol
• Gradual return to activities without worsening symptoms
• Analgesics like Tylenol (not aspirin)
• No return to athletics until neurological status is fully normal
