What is a concussion?

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A concussion is a brain injury that cannot be seen on routine X-rays, CT scans, or MRIs. It affects the way a person may think and remember things, and can cause a variety of symptoms. Any blow to the head, face or neck, or a blow to the body that jars the head, could cause a concussion.

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What are the signs and symptoms of a concussion?

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Signs and symptoms of a concussion can appear immediately or hours after the impact. Each person might experience concussion in a different way. It is typical to experience one or more of the following:

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What should I do if I suspect a concussion?

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In all suspected cases of concussion, the person should stop the activity right away. Continuing increases their risk of more severe, longer-lasting concussion symptoms, as well as increases their risk of other injury.

Anyone with a suspected concussion should be checked out by a medical doctor.
If any red flag symptoms are present, get medical help immediately. If the person is unconscious, call an ambulance. Do not move the person or remove
any equipment, such as a helmet, in case of a spine injury.

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Source: Parachute Canada

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For more information about treatment and recovery following a concussion, please see the resources below. If you suspect you have a concussion, it is important to consult a health care professional before returning to school or sports. Even a minor concussion can have lasting cognitive implications if it is not treated properly. Remember, we only have one brain for life!

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Concussion Links

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Assessment

Adult Sport Concussion Assessment  Tool (SCAT5)

Child Sport Concussion Assessment Tool (SCAT5)

Concussion Recognition Tool (CRT5)

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Guides

Concussion guide for athletes

Concussion guide for coaches

Concussion guide for parents and guardians

Concussion guide for physicians

Concussion guide for teachers

Guide to recovery from mild traumatic brain injury/ concussion

Return to learn

Return to sport

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Other Information

Consensus statement on concussion in sport—the 5th international conference on concussion in sport heldin Berlin, October 2016

Concussions Ontario

Things to know about concussions

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