Importance of Early Detection

Concussions are “mild” traumatic brain injuries, but there is nothing mild about the way they can up-end everyday life. I learned that first-hand: after my own concussion it took six months before I could stay active for more than half a day, and another three before my concentration felt normal again. A concussion happens your head stops suddenly, in my case a tackle, and your brain keeps moving since it floats in a fluid, striking the inside of the skull. That jolt disrupts brain-cell chemistry, causing brain function deterioration. Because these changes are functional, they rarely show up on a routine CT scan, which is why symptoms are our best early-warning system. Advances in biomarker technology are beginning to prove as a new way to detect concussions however, it is still early days.

People’s brain reacts to concussions very differently. Around 70-80% of individuals recovery within 4 weeks, 20-30% will experience symptoms for longer.  Sometimes a few more months. Sometimes years. Why the gap? Factors include age, sex for example women tend to take longer, prior concussions and, crucially, how quickly someone is diagnosed and managed.

Early detection is key because it decreases recovery time. But most important of all it prevents “second-impact syndrome”. Suffering another hit before the brain has healed can trigger dangerous swelling and dramatically lengthen or even end recovery causing permanent brain disfunction. Early recognition allows doctors the ability to prescribe the right blend of rest and light exercise, reducing de-conditioning and mental-health fallout.

The Amsterdam brain injury conference consensus recommends rest in the first 48 hours followed by a gradual symptom guided return to life. Bright screens, over studying, high cognitive loads, especially visually and audibly, can worsen headaches and delay recovery. The NHS leaflets echo this advice given by the consensus, stressing no screens and no hard thinking for the first 24–48 hours.

Here are some key concussion symptoms to watch out for:
Call 911 If the following:
• Worsening headache, repeated vomiting
• One pupil larger than the other
• Seizure, numbness, slurred speech
• Drowsy or cannot be woken

COMMON CONCUSSION SIGNS (seek GP / AE)
• Headache or “pressure in head”
• Dizziness or balance problems
• Blurred vision, light/noise sensitivity
• Trouble concentrating or remembering

When in doubt, sit them out and get a medical opinion.

Concussions are unique and your recovery may look nothing like someone else’s. But across hundreds of studies one theme is clear: the quicker we recognise a concussion, the quicker and safer we get back to life, work and the sports we love. Catch it early, treat it smart, and give your brain the time it needs.