A fall can happen in a split second. While some falls cause only minor injuries, others may lead to a concussion. Unfortunately, the effects of a fall are not always easy to see right away.
The CDC reports that 1 in 4 adults age 65 and older falls each year, making falls one of the most common causes of injury in older adults. Knowing the signs of a concussion and what to do next will help you or a loved one feel more prepared after a fall.
What is a concussion
A concussion is a type of brain injury that happens when a hit or sudden movement causes the brain to move inside the skull. Symptoms are not always easy to notice right away, which is why it is important to know what to watch for and when to get help.
Some concussion symptoms can appear hours or even days after an injury, which is why paying attention to changes in how you feel is important. If you or a loved one falls, you should watch for changes in how you feel over the next few hours or days. Here is a list of the most common ones.
Physical signs: Watch for symptoms like:
- Headache that does not go away or gets worse over time
- Feeling dizzy or unsteady
- Upset stomach or vomiting
- Blurry or double vision
- Feeling bothered by bright lights or loud sounds
Changes in thinking or mood: A concussion can affect more than your body. You may also notice:
- Confusion or memory problems
- Trouble focusing or feeling "foggy"
- Feeling more worried, sad, or irritable than usual
Sleep changes: Some people notice changes in sleep after a concussion, such as:
- Feeling more tired than normal
- Sleeping too much
- Trouble falling asleep
Remember, you may not notice every symptom at once. That is why it is so important to pay attention to how you feel after a fall. If it helps, consider writing down any signs you notice after a fall.
When to go to the ER and when to call your doctor or APP
Knowing the symptoms of a concussion is important but knowing when to get medical care matters as well.
After you fall, you may be unsure what to do next. Some symptoms need emergency care, while others can be handled by calling your primary care doctor or advanced practice provider* (APP).
Call 911 or go to the emergency room right away if you:
- Pass out, even for a short time
- Have a seizure
- Have a severe headache that keeps getting worse
- Throw up more than once
- Feel very confused or cannot wake up
- Notice weakness or numbness in your arms or legs
- Have trouble speaking
- Notice clear fluid coming from your nose or ears
These symptoms could be signs of a more serious brain injury and should be checked right away. Making sure to get care quickly can help you get the right treatment and support your recovery.
Call your primary care doctor or APP if you feel “off”
If your symptoms seem mild, but something does not feel right, call your doctor or APP. They know your health history and can help decide whether you need an office visit or more testing to see if you have a concussion.
What happens if you have a concussion
If your doctor or APP believes you have a concussion, you may wonder what recovery looks like. The good news is that most people recover from a concussion with proper care and time. This will include having you:
- Rest your brain and body: Rest is one of the most important parts of recovery. Your doctor may suggest limiting activities like:
- Driving
- Heavy exercise
- Long periods of screen time
- Activities that require a lot of focus
- Return to activities slowly: As you start feeling better, ease back into your regular routine. Doing too much too soon can make your symptoms worse.
- Watch for symptoms that last longer: Some older adults may continue having symptoms for several weeks. If that happens, your doctor or APP may recommend extra support, such as balance therapy or other treatments.
- Preventing future falls: Since falls are a common cause of concussions in older adults, preventing future falls is an important part of protecting your health. Small changes can help create a safer space and support your independence. They can include:
- Reviewing your medications
- Improving balance and strength through exercise
- Removing loose rugs and clutter
- Improving lighting throughout your home
- Installing grab bars in bathrooms and handrails on stairs
If you fall, it can feel scary, especially if you think you might have a concussion. Knowing the signs of a concussion and understanding when to get help can give you peace of mind.
Talk with your doctor or APP if you have questions after a fall or want help lowering your risk of future injuries, including preventing falls. Together, you can create a plan to help keep you healthy, active, and safe.
*An advanced practice provider includes a nurse practitioner or physician assistant.
To schedule an appointment with physician assistant Ivy Bishop, please contact Village Medical - Astoria at 281-922-7377 or visit us at 11914 Astoria Blvd., Medical Plaza 1, Suite 185, Houston, TX 77089. We look forward to caring for you and supporting your health every step of the way.