2. Confusion and Disorientation: Early Indicators of mTBI
Another pair of symptoms that often manifest after a concussion are confusion and disorientation. It’s crucial to note that these signs may not always be evident to the injured person and may only be noticeable to observers.
Confusion after a concussion might present as the injured person appearing dazed or stunned. They may have difficulty understanding questions or instructions, or they could provide slow or inappropriate responses. This confusion can also extend to their surroundings. It’s not uncommon for someone with a concussion to lose track of date and time or forget events that happened just before or after the injury.
Apart from confusion, another typical symptom of a concussion is disorientation. A concussed person may seem lost or bewildered.
Their sense of direction may be impaired, and they may have trouble recognizing familiar places or people. This symptom, similar to confusion, might not be apparent to the individual experiencing it, making it critical for observers to identify these symptoms.
These symptoms serve as early indicators of a potential mild traumatic brain injury. Therefore, if a person exhibits signs of confusion or disorientation after a head injury, even if the signs are subtle, they should seek immediate medical attention. Timely intervention is key to prevent further complications and ensure optimal recovery. (2)
