Symptoms of concussion in elderly

These changes may include: memory problems, difficulty concentrating, foggy thinking, anxiety, depression, or mood swings. Other possible symptoms of a concussion include: dizziness, headaches, nausea, balance problems, sensitivity to light or noise, and sleep problems.Feb 17, 2021
Concussion Symptoms in the Elderly Concussion symptoms are not always obvious, says Dr. Puskar. Some older adults might experience dizziness when they go to the grocery store or shopping mall where it’s active and noisy. Others may feel foggy, or extremely tired and run down.

How long after hitting head can concussion symptoms start?

The signs and symptoms of a concussion can be subtle and may not show up immediately. Symptoms can last for days, weeks or even longer. Common symptoms after a concussive traumatic brain injury are headache , loss of memory (amnesia) and confusion.

What are the 4 categories of concussion symptoms?

Concussion Symptoms Confusion or feeling dazed. Clumsiness. Slurred speech. Nausea or vomiting. Headache. Balance problems or dizziness. Blurred vision. Sensitivity to light.

What to do when an elderly person falls and hits their head?

An older person who falls and hits their head should see their doctor right away to make sure they don’t have a brain injury. Many people who fall , even if they’re not injured, become afraid of falling. This fear may cause a person to cut down on their everyday activities.

What happens to an untreated concussion?

A: Concussion left untreated can lead to long-term complications. Potential complications of a concussion include chronic headaches, memory problems, vertigo, and post- concussion syndrome, which is headaches, dizziness, mood swings, and brain fog that can continue for months or years after a concussion .

How can I tell if a head injury is mild or severe?

Symptoms may include: Mild head injury : Raised, swollen area from a bump or a bruise. Moderate to severe head injury (requires immediate medical attention)–symptoms may include any of the above plus: Loss of consciousness. Severe headache that does not go away. Repeated nausea and vomiting.

How can you test for a concussion at home?

What Are the Signs & Symptoms of a Concussion ? headache. blurred or double vision. dizziness, balance problems, or trouble walking. confusion and saying things that don’t make sense. being slow to answer questions. slurred speech. nausea or vomiting. not remembering what happened.

What are the symptoms of a slow brain bleed?

Symptoms of a subdural hematoma may include: Balance or walking problems. Confusion . Dizziness. Headache . Nausea or vomiting. Passing out (losing consciousness) Seizures . Sleepiness .

How serious is my concussion?

Drowsiness or inability to wake up. A headache that gets worse and does not go away. Slurred speech, weakness, numbness, or decreased coordination. Repeated vomiting or nausea, convulsions or seizures (shaking or twitching).

What makes a concussion worse?

Some people who have had a concussion find that at first it is hard to do their daily activities, their job, to get along with everyone at home, or to relax. Ignoring your symptoms and trying to “tough it out” often makes symptoms worse . Rest is very important after a concussion because it helps the brain to heal.

Why do the elderly die after a fall?

“People can die after a fall for many reasons, which may include head trauma, internal bleeding and complications of a bone fracture,” he said. “Fractures can lead to hospitalization, immobility in bed and respiratory or other infections, which can be fatal.” Several steps can be taken to reduce the risk, Pahor said.

What should you look for after a fall?

Seeking medical attention right away after a fall can reduce your risk of experiencing long-lasting injury, chronic pain or even death. Symptoms of a Potential Fall Injury Severe or lingering pain. Headaches. Obvious swelling. Ringing in the ears. Bruising. Loss of balance. Dizziness. Back pain.

Can I sleep if I hit my head?

A person can go to sleep following a concussion if he or she is awake and able to hold a conversation. No other symptoms, such as dilated pupils or trouble walking, should be present before sleeping . Dr. Rudolph treats concussions regularly in children, teens and adults.

Are black eyes a sign of a concussion?

If headaches persist or if you experience a loss of vision or consciousness, your black eye may be a symptom of a concussion or a fracture. Other symptoms of a concussion include: nausea.

How do they test for concussion?

Your doctor may order imaging tests — such as MRI or CT scans — to make sure there’s no bruising or bleeding in your brain. To confirm a concussion diagnosis, your doctor will use the data from your: Exam and interview. The ImPACT test looks at your: Verbal and visual memory. Brain processing speed. Reaction time.

Can you have a head injury and not know it?

Yes. Many people who have problems such as poor memory, difficulties in learning and behavioral issues are unaware they are experiencing symptoms resulting from an “unidentified” traumatic brain injury .