GLOSSARY

Concussion is a type of mild traumatic brain injury caused by a direct blow to the head, face, or neck, or by a blow to the body that transmits acceleration forces to the head, producing a transient disturbance of brain function; the injury is mainly functional, and standard imaging (CT and MRI) is usually normal.

Mechanism

Stretching and rotation of neurons → a neurometabolic cascade: widespread ion flux, glutamate release, and high energy demand with reduced blood flow (an energy crisis).

Symptoms

• Physical: headache (the most common), dizziness, nausea, blurred vision, sensitivity to light and noise.
• Cognitive: confusion, mental slowing, poor concentration, and memory loss.
• Emotional: irritability, anxiety, and sadness.
• Sleep: drowsiness or insomnia.

Scientific Corrections