Hello Tribeca AYAM Family!
Did you know that March is Brain Injury Awareness Month? To stay “on-brand,” we’re covering the most common brain injury we treat at Tribeca AYAM: concussions.
The CDC estimates 2.3 million (3% of all) children and adolescents aged ≤17 years old in the U.S. have ever been diagnosed with a concussion or brain injury. The highest rates are in teens ages 12-17 years old!
What is a Concussion?
A concussion is a form of traumatic brain injury that is usually (although not always) caused by a blow to the head. While concussions are commonly associated with sports, they also often occur in everyday situations like falls or accidents. A concussion can result in a number of physical and neurological symptoms, the severity of which can can range from mild to severe.
Ultimately, ALL concussions should be taken seriously because they are brain injuries!
Check out CDC Heads Up for more info.
Why am I at Risk?
Adolescents and young adults aged 10-29 years old are at a higher risk for concussions due to their involvement in physical activities and risk-taking behaviors. Having one concussion puts you at increased risk for future concussions, possibly with worse recovery. According to some studies, recovery also takes longer in adolescents compared to adults.
Symptoms to Look Out For
Symptoms of a concussion might happen right after the injury or develop over hours to days after.
- Headaches
- Dizziness
- Memory loss
- Lack of coordination
- Speech impairments
- Nausea and/or vomiting
- Difficulty concentrating or confusion
- Feeling sluggish
Someone with a concussion also might have focus or learning problems, sleep problems, or mood changes (irritability, anxiety, sadness).
If you notice any of these symptoms, it’s important to seek medical attention immediately.
Prevention Tips
- Ensure proper headgear and follow safety protocols in sports
- Wear a seatbelt every time you are in a car
- Report any symptoms you are experiencing and don’t try to “tough it out”
- Follow return-to-play and return-to-learn protocols after a concussion
What Does Recovery Look Like?
Each person with a concussion heals at their own pace, and it is important to give your body and brain the time they need to recovery fully. Under supervision from a physician, you may gradually return to activities, including tasks requiring cognitive energy, such as school/work, as well as physical activity. It’s important to find a balance between doing too much and too little.
Symptoms don’t have to be completely resolved for you to begin to return to certain activities, but it’s crucial to stay out of all sports and any activities that could lead to head injury (like rough play, or riding a bike, scooter or skateboard) until your symptoms are completely resolved and you’ve been cleared by your physician. It’s important to prevent another concussion because repeated concussions can have long-lasting, serious effects on the brain.
At Tribeca AYAM, we offer comprehensive concussion management, including diagnostic evaluations and a tailored recovery plan. If you have any concerns, schedule an appointment with us today.
Warm regards,
The Tribeca AYAM Team