Concussion

It is a temporary loss of normal brain function as a result of brain trauma or sudden body deceleration.

Symptoms include headache, loss of recent memory, nausea, dizziness, loss of balance, slow thinking, sleep disturbances and confusion.

The diagnosis is made by interview, physical examination with a thorough neurological examination and imaging tests (usually a CT-scan).

In mild cases, it is recommended to rest and use common analgesics to relieve the headache. In severe cases, the patient may need to be admitted to hospital for observation to ensure vital signs and monitor progress; if there is bleeding, urgent brain surgery may be required.