Symptom recognition and prompt medical attention key to concussion recovery

MORGANTOWN, W.Va. – In conjunction with Concussion Awareness Day on Sept. 19, WVU Rockefeller Neuroscience Institute (RNI) experts stress the importance of recognizing concussion symptoms and seeking medical treatment to optimize recovery and avoid the risk of potentially serious complications.  

While most people associate concussions with athletes, sports-related injuries are not the leading cause of concussions. Falls are the most common cause of concussion, with young children and older adults most at risk. 

Each year, approximately 2.5 million Americans sustain a traumatic brain injury (TBI), according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. A TBI occurs when physical trauma causes a change in brain function, which ranges in severity from mild to severe.   

Concussions are considered the mildest form of TBI because they are not usually life-threatening. However, concussions should never be ignored and can lead to serious health consequences if they are left untreated.  

Providers at the RNI Concussion and Brain Injury Center work with patients of all ages to identify signs and symptoms of concussion and brain injuries to develop a customized treatment plan. Patients have access to care specialists in Neurology; Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, including speech, vision, occupational, and cognitive therapy; and Behavioral Medicine and Psychiatry, including Neuropsychology.  

“Even though concussions are mild, the consequences can be problematic for anybody who is working or a kid who is going to school,” Javier Cárdenas, M.D., director of the RNI Concussion and Brain Injury Center, said. “We don’t always know if this is a concussion or something worse. We don’t want to downplay it or dismiss it. We want to be thoughtful about it.” 

Dr. Cárdenas discusses common causes of concussion, as well as symptoms, prevention, and treatment options in Concussion: Not Just for Athletes, a recent episode of the Live Healthy WV podcast. He also clarifies some concussion myths, addresses athletes and concussions, and discusses the expertise of the RNI’s brain injury team. 

For more information about the WVU Rockefeller Neuroscience Institute Concussion and Brain Injury Center, visit WVUMedicine.org/Concussion. 

About Live Healthy WV 

Live Healthy WV, a podcast presented by WVU Medicine, aims to help everyone live a better, healthier life in West Virginia and beyond. Find the latest episodes of Live Healthy WV on the MetroNews website or on the MetroNews Television app, in addition to other popular streaming services.