Concussion Management

What is a Concussion?

• A brain injury
• Typically caused, but not always, by an impact to the head, with or without loss of consciousness.

Every concussion is different – therefore, the term concussion is often thought of as an umbrella term for this group of symptoms.

What do I do if I think I sustained a concussion?

1. Stop what you are doing (studying, playing, electronic devices)
2. Seek immediate medical attention – ask your family physician for advice
3. Rest – take time to rest your mind and body
4. Take it slow – slowly get back to studying, working and playing

What treatment is available at the Thamesview Family Health Team?

1. Contact your Family Physician for immediate medical attention.
2. Referral to an Occupational Therapist
   • Baseline testing for cognition and balance, along with vision and vestibular testing
   • Early management of concussion symptoms
   • Balance training
   • Vision and vestibular rehabilitation
   • Return to work strategies
   • Communication of treatment progression with family physician

Symptoms

Physical

• Headache
• Nausea and vomiting
• Blurred or double vision
• Seeing stars
• Balance problems
• Dizziness
• Sensitivity to light or noise
• Ringing in the ears

Behavioral

• Frustration
• Anger
• Feeling down and depressed
• Anxious

Sleep

• Sleeping more than usual
• Difficulty falling asleep

Cognitive

• Feeling slowed down
• Difficulty concentrating
• Feeling dazed
• Memory problems
• Trouble multi-tasking
• Not your old self

In order to get a referral, patients should call 519-354-0070.