Concussions occur in a wide variety of ways. In most cases, individuals are able to make a complete recovery after sustaining a concussion. However, there are times when individuals sustain long-lasting impacts as a result of concussion injuries. Here, we want to clear up some of the most common myths associated with concussion injuries.
Myth 1: You Don’t Have a Concussion if You Weren’t Knocked Out
Many individuals think that there is no way a concussion can occur unless a person loses consciousness. However, that is not the case, and this myth can be very dangerous.
The reality is that only around 10% of concussions include the person losing consciousness, according to data available from the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center (UPMC). Additionally, the loss of consciousness does not necessarily mean that a concussion is more severe than a concussion that does not result in a loss of consciousness. Research from UPMC shows that a loss of consciousness did not mean that a person’s injury was more severe or that they would have a longer recovery time. In short – you need to seek medical care whether you lose consciousness or not after sustaining a bump or blow to the head or body.
Myth 2: You Have to Hit Your Head to Get a Concussion
Most people think of concussions when they think of full-contact sports such as American football. However, this has led to individuals thinking that concussions only happen after a person sustains a blow directly to their head.
Yes, concussions can certainly occur as a result of a blow to the head, but they can also occur in various other ways. For example, a person can sustain a concussion if they sustain a severe bump or jolt to the body that causes their head to shake, such as whiplash from a vehicle accident or a slip and fall incident.
Myth 3: If You Have no Immediate Symptoms, You’re Probably Fine
It is not uncommon for individuals to not have any symptoms right after sustaining a bump or blow to the head or body. However, this should not be taken as an indication that the person has not sustained a concussion. Often, traumatic brain injuries have delayed signs and symptoms, and it can be hard to see the level of damage that has occurred underneath the skull. It is not uncommon for a person to suffer from the signs and symptoms of concussion hours or even days after the initial bump or blow to the head or body.
Myth 4: You Need to Stay Awake if You Have a Concussion
Perhaps the most common concussion myth is that a person who sustains a bump or blow to the head cannot go to sleep or that they need to be woken up often. However, this is not true. Internal bleeding in the brain is not often associated with concussions, and a person that has been cleared by a medical professional will be allowed to sleep. In fact, sleep is beneficial for those who have suffered concussions. One of the best ways to treat a concussion injury is through various types of rest, including sleep as well as cognitive rest during waking hours. This means limited mental activities such as less screen time.
Contact us today for a free consultation if you’ve been involved in an accident resulting in a concussion.