A concussion, also known as a mild traumatic brain injury (mTBI), occurs when a sudden jolt, bump, or blow to the head or body causes the brain to move rapidly within the skull. This motion can stretch and damage brain cells, leading to temporary changes in brain function and chemical imbalances. While often perceived as a singular injury, medical understanding has advanced to identify distinct ways concussions can manifest, leading to varied symptom profiles. Concussions are not always life-threatening, but their effects can impact physical, cognitive, and emotional well-being for days, weeks, or even longer.
Why Concussions Are Categorized
Medical professionals have transitioned from a general “concussion” diagnosis to categorizing these injuries into distinct types to better understand and address the varied experiences of individuals. Different mechanisms of injury or specific areas of the brain affected can lead to unique symptom profiles.
This categorization helps explain why two people with concussions might present with vastly different symptoms, even if the initial impact seemed similar. By identifying these distinct profiles, healthcare providers can gain insights into the underlying issues, moving towards more focused approaches for evaluation and recovery. This evolving understanding acknowledges the complexity of brain injury and aims to improve patient outcomes.
The Six Concussion Profiles
Current medical understanding recognizes six distinct concussion profiles, each characterized by a specific cluster of symptoms reflecting different areas of brain dysfunction. While symptoms can overlap, identifying the predominant profile helps guide recovery strategies.
Cognitive/Fatigue
This profile involves symptoms that primarily affect thinking processes and energy levels. Individuals may experience difficulty concentrating, impaired memory, or a general sense of mental fogginess. Fatigue is a prominent feature, often manifesting as excessive tiredness, reduced mental endurance, and decreased motivation, even with minimal exertion. These cognitive and fatigue symptoms can significantly disrupt daily activities, including school, work, and social engagement.
Vestibular
The vestibular system, located in the inner ear, plays a significant role in balance and spatial awareness. A vestibular concussion can lead to symptoms such as dizziness, vertigo (a sensation of spinning), and a feeling of unsteadiness or disequilibrium. Individuals might find busy environments overwhelming or experience nausea and disorientation with head movements or changes in position. Balance problems can make simple movements challenging, impacting coordination and increasing the risk of falls.
Ocular
Ocular concussions involve symptoms related to vision and eye movement control. Common issues include blurry vision, double vision, and eye strain. Individuals may have difficulty tracking moving objects smoothly or focusing their eyes, leading to problems with reading or screen time. Sensitivity to light, known as photophobia, is also frequently reported, and visual tasks can exacerbate headaches.
Cervical
A cervical concussion arises when the neck is injured concurrently with the head trauma, contributing to concussion symptoms. The forces that cause a concussion are often sufficient to also cause a whiplash-type injury to the neck. Symptoms often include neck pain, stiffness, and headaches that originate in the neck and might radiate to the head. Dizziness, limited range of motion in the neck, and even blurred vision can also be associated with this profile.
Migraine
This profile is characterized by headache-dominant symptoms that resemble classic migraines. Individuals often experience moderate to severe headaches, which can be throbbing or pulsating. These headaches are frequently accompanied by sensitivity to light and sound, nausea, and sometimes visual aura. Physical activity or stress can worsen these symptoms, making daily tasks challenging.
Anxiety/Mood
This profile encompasses emotional and psychological symptoms that can significantly impact well-being after a concussion. Individuals may experience increased anxiety, irritability, sadness, or sudden mood swings. Difficulty coping with stress, feelings of being overwhelmed, and even hopelessness can also be present. These emotional changes can affect social interactions and overall mental health.
Importance of Identifying Concussion Types
Recognizing the specific type of concussion helps individuals better understand their symptoms, allowing for more precise communication with healthcare professionals for diagnosis and effective care.
Identifying a predominant concussion profile can also guide initial management strategies and help set expectations for the recovery process. Awareness of these types allows for a more personalized approach to recovery, focusing on the most problematic symptom clusters.
Next Steps After a Suspected Concussion
If a concussion is suspected, immediate medical evaluation by a healthcare professional experienced in concussion management is important. A medical professional can confirm the diagnosis, rule out more severe injuries like bleeding in the brain, and provide appropriate guidance. Avoid self-diagnosis, as symptoms can be subtle or delayed.
In the initial stages of recovery, rest is generally recommended, encompassing both physical and cognitive rest. This means limiting activities that require significant mental effort, such as reading, screen time, and strenuous physical activity. Following professional medical advice ensures a safer and more effective recovery.