How to Spot the Signs of a Concussion

January 01, 0001

A concussion is a mild type of traumatic brain injury (TBI). It’s important to seek the appropriate level of care if they occur. Luis Palacio with Renown Sports Medicine walked us through what concussion signs to look for and what to do next.

Look for these Dangerous Signs First

Call 911 or visit an ER right away if you notice one of the following in the person who suffered a blow to the head or body:

• One pupil is larger than the other
• Drowsiness or inability to wake up, including any period of unconsciousness
• Slurred speech, weakness, numbness or decreased coordination
• Severe nausea or vomiting
• Convulsions, shaking or twitching

Monitor for Concussion Signs and Symptoms

If someone suffers a bump, blow or other jolt, it’s important to look out for the following symptoms. These signs would generally show up soon after the incident, but can be delayed by hours or days. Seek care from xxxx if you notice any of the following:

• Cannot recall events prior to or after the incident
• Appears confused or disoriented
• Clumsy movements
• Slow reaction, including movements and speech
• Changes to normal behavior or mood

You should also question the person about how they are feeling. If they report any of the following symptoms, seek care:

• Headache or feelings of pressure in their head
• Nausea or vomiting
• Dizziness or balance issues
• Problems with eyesight, such as blurriness or double vision
• Adverse reactions to light or sound
• Sluggishness, or feelings described as “hazy” or “foggy”
• Struggles with remembering or concentration
• Anything that could be chalked up to “not feeling right”