What is a concussion?

CPT Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 08 Sep 2015 09:21:24 -0400

Have you had a concussion or a soldier diagnosed as having a concussion? Do you understand what concussion is and how it affects you/your soldier. Concussions are serious. If you think you have a concussion or you know someone who does, you shouldn't ignore the signs and symptoms. Sometimes the effects of a concussion do not go away and the patient will have an increased sensitivity to light and sound, sleep problems, headaches, cognitive problems involving memory and concentration, and psychological problems such as depressed mood, irritability and anxiety that persist for an indefinite about of time.

There is a lot of information available about concussions and concussion action plans. Some good sources can be found at cdc.gov, your own organization my already have a "Concussion Action Plan", and you can google "Concussion Action Plan" to find PDFs of them.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yIqZDbk3M40

"Signs of a Concussion
Can’t recall events prior to or after a hit or fall.
Appears dazed or stunned.
Forgets an instruction, is confused about an assignment or position, or is unsure of the game, score, or opponent.
Moves clumsily.
Answers questions slowly.
Loses consciousness (even briefly).
Shows mood, behavior, or personality changes."

"Symptoms Reported
Headache or “pressure” in head.
Nausea or vomiting.
Balance problems or dizziness, or double or blurry vision.
Bothered by light or noise.
Feeling sluggish, hazy, foggy, or groggy.
Confusion, or concentration or memory problems.
Just not “feeling right,” or “feeling down”."

"Dangerous Signs and Symptoms involving a concussion
One pupil larger than the other.
Drowsiness or inability to wake up.
A headache that gets worse and does not go away.
Slurred speech, weakness, numbness, or decreased coordination.
Repeated vomiting or nausea, convulsions or seizures (shaking or twitching).
Unusual behavior, increased confusion, restlessness, or agitation.
Loss of consciousness (passed out/knocked out). Even a brief loss of consciousness should be taken seriously."

Keeping Quiet Can Keep You Out of the Game

As a high school basketball player, Tracy sustained two concussions within a short period of time. Tracy tells her story and emphasizes that concussions are ...

Response by Sgt David G Duchesneau made Sep 8 at 2015 9:26 AM

Sgt David G Duchesneau — Tue, 08 Sep 2015 09:26:13 -0400

Great information Captain, thank you!, I think I had an X that had one all the time,lol. But seriously, I've had several subordinates that have suffered concussions both in the Military and in the private sector. Even one of my kids when they got hit n the head with a baseball bat! And no, I did not hit my son with a bat.