THE CONCUSSION GUIDE

A RECOVERY TOOLBOX


01

What is a concussion?

A change in mental status that is always trauma-induced, may not involve loss of consciousness,

and not necessarily related to a hit to the head.

02

A concussion is an unfortunate MISHAP that can cause ...

Moodiness

Imbalance/Dizziness

Sleep Issues

Headache

Attention-

Problems


Other signs and symptoms to be aware of…

  • Confusion

  • Amnesia or memory loss

  • Nausea and or vomiting

  • Vision changes

  • Loss of consciousness (rare)

WATCH THIS VIDEO TO LEARN MORE:

04

RED FLAGS- Call 911 or take to Emergency Department Right Away

  • One pupil larger than the other

  • Excessive drowsiness or inability to wake up

  • A headache that gets worse or does not go away

  • Slurred speech, weakness, numbness

  • Repeated vomiting or nausea

  • Convulsions or seizures

  • Unusual behavior like restlessness or agitation -Loss of consciousness (passed out/knocked out)

It is incredibly important that if you witness a head injury, you do not try and attempt to gauge an individual’s injury. The injured person should always seek care from a medical professional.

For more information on RED FLAGS, please visit our partner, the Phoenix Concussion Recovery Center at:

https://phoenixconcussionrecovery.com/education/red-flags/

05

How to effectively manage your concussion and help heal your brain:

EARLYPHASE

Avoid strenuous mental and physical activity in the first 1-2 weeks following an injury. Strive to get the best night’s sleep possible.

Steps to improve your sleep:

  • Stick to a regular sleep schedule, even on weekends.

  • Go to bed only when sleepy.

  • Make your bedroom quiet and comfortable.

  • Do something relaxing and enjoyable before bedtime like meditation or journaling.

  • If you cannot sleep within 15 to 20 minutes, get up and go to another room & return to bed only when drowsy.

  • Schedule outdoor time at the same time each day.

LATER PHASE

As you start to heal and feel better, it is encouraged to slowly reintroduce physical activity. It is important to start with activities such as walking or riding a stationary bike, starting slowly and gradually increasing intensity and length of activity. Listen to your body and stop if you start to experience symptoms.

Additional information and resources regarding recovering from a concussion or mild TBI from the Center for Disease Control and Prevention can be found here:

https://www.cdc.gov/traumaticbraininjury/concussion/getting-better.html

06

Returning to Normal Activity

After seeking care from a healthcare professional, it is typically recommended to return to normal activity when you are free from headache, dizziness, sleep issues, attention difficulties, and moodiness for a full 7 days.

07

Relaxation Techniques

  • Deep breathing exercises

  • Practice mindful meditation

  • Journal

  • Yoga

  • Muscle Relaxation Exercises

  • Go for a walk

  • Drink a cup of warm decaffeinated tea

08

HELP THE HEALING
Pay attention to what triggers your symptoms and work to avoid them.

Common post-concussive headache triggers include:

  • Nitrates (deli meats, hot dogs)

  • Monosodium Glutamate (MSG) (fake powdered cheese, some soups)

  • Red Dye (popsicles, jello, juice drinks)

  • “Diet” drinks with aspartame

  • Caffeine

  • Skipping meals

  • Changes in the weather

  • Irregular sleep patterns

  • Not drinking enough water

  • Emotional Stress

09

Friends Look Out For Friends

There is no one better to identify an individual’s subtle changes in mood and attention than a good friend. You know your friends better than anyone and if you see them acting strange after a head or whiplash injury let someone know! If you are struggling after a concussion, talk to a trusted friend, adult, or coach to be your own advocate and get the concussion treatment you deserve.

10


Can you prevent a concussion?

Unfortunately, it is difficult to prevent a concussion, ALTHOUGH with equipment such as properly fitted helmets and mouthguards you have the potential to significantly reduce the risk and extent of brain injury.

Helmet safety is no doubt an important aspect of concussion prevention. For information regarding helmet safety, specifically helmets for action sports, please view the CDC Heads Up resources here:

https://www.cdc.gov/headsup/helmets/index.html

With increased education about concussions, it is our hope that brain injuries will:

  • Be more easily identified

  • Allow for quicker access to medical care and treatments

  • Provide an abundance of resources for individual’s recovery

  • Create a community that fosters support.

For more educational resources on concussions, ways to get involved, or inquiries about Save A Brain Education events please go to saveabraininc.com or email contact@saveabraininc.com

DISCLAIMER
This brochure is in no way inclusive of all information regarding concussions. This brochure is for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. If you feel as though you have experienced a concussion, you must be evaluated by a medical provider.