Understanding Concussions: Causes, Symptoms & When to Seek Help

A concussion is a mild form of Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) — but despite the word mild, it should always be taken seriously. Concussions can happen to anyone, at any age, and often occur in situations that seem harmless at first: a quick bump, a fall, or even a hard tackle during a weekend game.

Understanding how concussions happen and what signs to look for can make a real difference in how quickly and safely someone recovers.

What Causes a Concussion?

A concussion occurs when a sudden force causes the brain to move rapidly back and forth inside the skull. This rapid motion can stretch or damage brain tissue, disrupting how brain cells send and receive messages.

Common causes of concussions include:

• Motor vehicle collisions (car, motorcycle, or bike accidents)
• Sports injuries — especially contact sports like hockey, football, or soccer
• Slips, trips, and falls — particularly from a height greater than your own height
• Workplace accidents or impacts to the head
• Electrocution or severe jolts to the body

Even if there is no visible head injury, the internal effects can still be serious.

What Happens to the Brain During a Concussion

When the head experiences a sudden impact, the brain — which floats in fluid inside the skull — shifts or rotates. This motion can:

• Stretch and damage nerve cells
• Interrupt the brain’s normal chemical and electrical activity
• Cause temporary changes in balance, coordination, and memory

These disruptions are what lead to the signs and symptoms of a concussion.

Recognizing the Signs and Symptoms of a Concussion

Symptoms can appear immediately after the injury or develop over several hours. They vary from person to person, but common indicators include:

Cognitive and Behavioural Signs

• Confusion or appearing dazed/stunned
• Temporary memory loss about the event
• Difficulty concentrating or following directions
• Irritability, nervousness, or anxiety
• Unusual personality changes

Physical Symptoms

• Headache or pressure in the head
• Neck pain or stiffness
• Dizziness or loss of balance
• Nausea or vomiting
• Blurred or double vision
• “Seeing stars” or sensitivity to light and noise
• Feeling sluggish or unusually tired

If you suspect a concussion, stop all activity immediately and seek medical attention. Continuing to play sports or work through symptoms can make the injury much worse.

What To Do If a Concussion Is Suspected

1. Stop the activity – The person should immediately rest and avoid any physical exertion.
2. Seek medical evaluation – Even if symptoms seem mild, it is essential to have a healthcare provider assess the injury.
3. Monitor for changes – Keep an eye on worsening symptoms or behavioural changes.
4. Follow medical advice – Recovery typically involves physical and cognitive rest, followed by a gradual return to activity.

Avoid giving pain medication unless directed by a medical professional and never allow the person to “sleep it off” without monitoring.

When to Call 911 or Seek Emergency Medical Help

While some concussions can be treated with rest and observation, certain warning signs require immediate emergency care.

Call EMS/9-1-1 right away if the person experiences:

• Repeated or projectile vomiting
• Any loss of consciousness or responsiveness
• Confusion, disorientation, or slurred speech
• Seizures or convulsions
• Unequal pupil size or double vision
• Persistent dizziness or balance loss
• Weakness, tingling, or numbness in the arms or legs
• Severe or worsening headache

Preventing Concussions

While not all concussions can be avoided, simple precautions can reduce the risk:

• Always wear appropriate helmets and protective gear when biking or playing sports
• Use seatbelts and ensure proper car seat use for children
• Keep work and home environments free from tripping hazards
• Encourage safe play and awareness in sports and recreational activities

Education is the best prevention. Knowing the symptoms and responding quickly can help prevent long-term complications.

Learn First Aid and Save Lives with Durham First Aid

Recognizing a concussion — and knowing when to act — can make all the difference. Through Red Cross–Certified First Aid and CPR training, Durham First Aid teaches you how to identify and respond to medical emergencies like head injuries, cardiac arrest, and more.

We offer both individual and group training throughout Durhatel:9052400092m Region, including Oshawa, Whitby, Bowmanville, and beyond.

👉 Register for first aid training online or by contacting us at info@durhamfirstaid.com or (905) 240-0092.