Concussions are classified into several types.

Written by Ma Xian Shi
General Surgery
Updated on May 26, 2025
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Concussion is the mildest form of brain injury, characterized by transient brain dysfunction without visible neuropathological changes, although microscopic examination can reveal disordered neural structures. Generally, there are two types of concussions. The mild form manifests immediately after the injury with transient disturbances in consciousness and mental clarity, often lasting a few seconds to minutes, usually not exceeding half an hour. Upon waking, the individual cannot recall the incident, a condition known as retrograde amnesia. The second type, the severe form, involves more significant disturbances in consciousness that last longer, accompanied by symptoms such as pallor, cool and moist limbs, sweating, decreased blood pressure, slowed heart rate, slowed breathing, and the loss of various physiological reflexes. However, as consciousness is regained, these symptoms gradually normalize, followed by headaches, nausea, vomiting, and other symptoms. With time and treatment, improvement typically occurs.

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Written by Li Jin Quan
General Surgery
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How to alleviate vomiting from a concussion

Patients with concussions typically present with transient disturbances in consciousness and recent memory loss following an injury. Some patients may also exhibit a range of clinical symptoms such as headaches, dizziness, nausea, vomiting, and loss of appetite. To alleviate vomiting in concussion patients, it is essential to maintain ample rest and a reasonable diet that is light and easy to digest. Avoid consuming highly stimulating foods and alcohol. Additionally, eat smaller meals more frequently. If vomiting is severe, symptomatic treatment can be administered. Currently, metoclopramide can be used for intramuscular injections as a standard treatment.

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Written by Li Jin Quan
General Surgery
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How to alleviate a mild concussion

Mild concussion usually leads to retrograde amnesia and transient consciousness disturbances in patients after the injury. Patients may also experience headaches, dizziness, loss of appetite, decline in memory, and lack of concentration. To alleviate mild concussion, it is important to first ensure that the patient gets adequate rest, avoids staying up late, and maintains a quiet environment. Secondly, it is essential to pay attention to the patient's nutritional needs, adopting a light and easily digestible diet. Thirdly, symptomatic medical treatment should be considered, especially if the patient suffers severely from headaches, nausea, loss of appetite, or insomnia. In such cases, analgesic and hypnotic medications can be used to relieve symptoms.

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Written by Jiang Fang Shuai
Neurosurgery
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How to check for a concussion?

How is a concussion diagnosed? In fact, the diagnosis of a concussion is primarily based on clinical manifestations such as a clear history of head trauma, temporary confusion, and retrograde amnesia. Concussions can also undergo some routine examinations, such as CT scans of the head, X-rays of the head, electroencephalography, cerebral blood flow imaging, and cerebrospinal fluid analysis. However, these test results are usually negative, meaning that the diagnosis of a concussion mainly relies on clinical manifestations and there are no effective diagnostic tests.

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Written by Li Jin Quan
General Surgery
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What should be done for a concussion?

Patients with concussion generally experience fear and anxiety, so it is important to keep them calm and avoid disturbing them as much as possible. Some psychological communication with the patient can help maintain a calm state of mind. Secondly, closely observe the patient's general condition and changes in consciousness to prevent delayed intracranial hemorrhage. Thirdly, administer symptomatic medication as needed, such as pain relievers and sleep aids for symptoms like headache and insomnia. Fourthly, use medications that promote the recovery of nerve cells for treatment.

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Written by Gao Yi Shen
Neurosurgery
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Precursors of concussion

Concussions generally do not have precursors, as they occur immediately after the brain is injured and certain clinical symptoms manifest. There is no concept of a precursor with concussions. The clinical symptoms of a concussion primarily appear after a trauma and include headaches, dizziness, nausea, vomiting, retrograde amnesia, and brief periods of unconsciousness. These symptoms must all be present to classify as related to a concussion. If symptoms are present and a head CT scan shows no significant bleeding, a concussion can generally be diagnosed. Therefore, there is no such thing as precursors, only related clinical manifestations.