A concussion is a type of brain injury resulting from a jolt or blow to the head or body that causes the brain to move rapidly within the skull. This forceful movement can temporarily affect how the brain functions. This article will explore whether chills are a symptom of a concussion and the necessary steps to take if they occur after a head injury.
Common Concussion Symptoms
Concussions can lead to a variety of physical, cognitive, and emotional symptoms. A common physical symptom is a headache. Individuals may also experience dizziness, balance problems, or nausea and vomiting. Sensitivity to light or sound is another physical manifestation.
Cognitive symptoms often include confusion, difficulty concentrating, and memory issues. Some people describe feeling “foggy” or “slowed down” mentally. Changes in sleep patterns can also occur. Emotional changes like irritability or increased anxiety may also be noticed. These symptoms can appear immediately or develop hours to days following the injury.
Chills: Atypical or Related Symptom?
Chills are not considered a primary or typical concussion symptom. While common concussion symptoms primarily involve neurological and cognitive changes, chills can occur after a head injury. This sensation is often related to the brain’s complex system for regulating body temperature, which can be disrupted by a traumatic brain injury.
The hypothalamus, a region deep within the brain, acts like a thermostat, controlling body temperature and communicating with the nervous system. A head injury can interfere with the hypothalamus’s function or affect hormonal balances, potentially leading to issues with thermoregulation. This disruption might cause a person to feel cold or shiver, or it could be due to the body’s stress response. If chills are present alongside other concussion symptoms, medical evaluation is warranted.
When to Seek Urgent Medical Attention
While many concussion symptoms resolve with rest, certain “red flag” symptoms indicate a more serious injury requiring immediate medical attention. A worsening headache is a significant warning sign. Repeated vomiting, seizures, or convulsions also necessitate urgent care.
Other serious symptoms include loss of consciousness lasting more than a brief moment, increasing confusion, or unusual behavior like agitation. Weakness, numbness, slurred speech, or changes in vision, such as pupils of unequal size, are also important indicators. Any suspected concussion, even with mild symptoms, should lead to a medical evaluation to ensure proper assessment and guidance for recovery.