Concussion Myths Debunked – Part 1
With all the buzz lately around concussion in the media, there is a ton of information floating around regarding concussion symptoms and education. You may think you’ve heard all there is to hear and that you know all there is to know about concussion, but that might not necessarily be true. In this two part blog series, we’ll debunk some of the most common myths about concussion symptoms and give you the knowledge you need to keep your head safe.
Myth #1: You need to have several of symptoms in order to be diagnosed with a concussion
Fact: You only need ONE symptom to be diagnosed with a concussion after receiving a blow to the head or body. This symptom could be headache, dizziness, nausea, or even just a general “fogginess” (click here for a list of concussion symptoms in adults or check out our blog How Do I Know if My Baby Has a Concussion? for a list of concussion symptoms in infants and toddlers).
Myth #2 Men are more susceptible to concussions than women, since they are involved in more risky activities.
Fact: Women are more susceptible to concussions due to having less neck strength than men. This makes them more sensitive to the effects of whiplash that cause the “brain jiggle” responsible for concussion.
Myth #3: You only get concussions from playing sports or other physical activities.
Fact: Playing sports is only one of many leading causes of concussions seen in Emergency Rooms. Concussions are also regularly caused by slips and falls, car accidents, assaults, falls on the playground, and workplace accidents. Concussions can happen across many ages and environments.
Myth #4: Doctors know the part of the brain where concussion happens.
Fact: Doctors do not know the exact location of damage in the brain resulting from concussion. As concussions are caused by “brain jiggle” multiple areas may be affected by the forces.
Myth #5: You have to lose consciousness to have a concussion.
Fact: You DO NOT have to lose consciousness to have a concussion. Many people who have a concussion never pass out; however, they may feel disoriented or "in a fog". People can have concussions and not even realize it.
Melissa Kiley is a registered Speech-Language Pathologist with a special interest in concussion/acquired brain injury as well as literacy skills development. She has been working with clients for over 10 years and is highly skilled in developing functional and innovative treatments.