The Seven Different Types of Concussion: An In-Depth Look
Concussions affect millions of people annually and are a serious public health concern. Any incident that causes the brain to move quickly inside the skull, such as a jolt, blow, or strike to the head, can produce these mild traumatic brain injuries (TBI). This rapid movement may cause chemical changes in the brain, stretch or harm brain tissue, and kill brain cells.
According to their signs and symptoms, concussions are divided into seven categories. Let’s explore these divisions and learn the subtle differences between each category.
- Cognitive/Fatigue
This type of concussion is characterized by short-term memory problems, sluggish thought processes, difficulties focusing, and mental tiredness. These signs may become more obvious when performing intellectually taxing tasks. This kind of concussion has a considerably negative effect on both work productivity and academic achievement.
- Vestibular
Balance and mobility issues that come with this kind of concussion are common. Patients may feel unsteady, have trouble coordinating their movements, and have trouble orienting themselves in space. Walking or even simply standing still can be difficult after a vestibular trauma if movement or balance are required.
- Ocular
These cause vision-related symptoms. Patients may experience eye tracking issues, hazy vision, and light sensitivity. Additionally, they could get headaches that get worse when they do anything visual, like read or stare at a screen. It may have a significant influence on vision-intensive tasks, which may lower the quality of life.
- Post-Traumatic Migraine
This type of concussion is characterized by signs and symptoms resembling migraines, such as severe headaches, nausea, light sensitivity, and, occasionally, a visual aura. The discomfort, which can be incapacitating, can make it much harder to complete daily tasks.
- Cervical
Neck injuries that happen simultaneously with brain traumas are linked to cervical concussions. Patients could feel stiffness, neck pain, and a limited range of motion. These symptoms could occasionally make headaches worse or make other concussion symptoms worse.
- Anxiety/Mood
This kind of concussion significantly affects a person’s emotional health. Increased anxiety, erratic moods, depression, and personality changes may be present in patients. Psychological care must be included in the treatment plan because these symptoms might impair communication and general mental health.
- Physiological
Physical exertion-related symptoms, such as headaches or dizziness, are indicative of physiological concussions. During or after physical activity, patients may notice an increase in concussion symptoms such as headaches or lightheadedness. Physical activity can exacerbate their weariness, which they might also experience.
Conclusion
In each of these situations, identifying the precise type of concussion is essential for treating the damage and creating a personalized treatment plan. The possibility of a full recovery is increased thanks to the physicians’ ability to use the best therapeutic interventions and recovery protocols in light of this awareness.
Remember that this is a streamlined classification. Concussion symptoms can really overlap, and a person may exhibit a mix of different sorts. Therefore, the best way to treat these complex injuries is typically through a multidisciplinary approach comprising, among others, neurologists, physical therapists, and mental health specialists.
We may work toward better prevention, precise diagnosis, and efficient treatment approaches in our ongoing effort to better understand concussions and their effects so that people can manage these potentially fatal injuries. Never forget that there is no such thing as being overly cautious or informed when it comes to brain health.
