What are concussions?
The term is derived from a Latin word ‘concutere’ which is used to mean to shake violently. It refers to a state where the brain is subjected to a traumatic injury due to fatal blows to the head that cause the brain to move violently back and forth. This, in turn, causes damage to the neurons that make them not to communicate efficiently with one another thus sending wrong signals.
This could be as a result of a fight, an accident, a fall or from sporting activities that are characterized by constant contact with people and objects. Boxers, for example, are much susceptible to such injuries due to the constant blows aimed at their heads. Concussions are classified as mild, moderate or severe depending on the extent of the shake to the brain.
The classification is based on such factors as loss of consciousness, amnesia or loss of equilibrium. Mild concussions are unlikely to cause death but repeated exposure to them could result in death as reported by the various agencies concerned with the same.
Indications of a concussion
A number of factors could point towards a possible case of a concussion. They include dizziness, headaches or a feeling of pressure in the head, loss of consciousness for some time, a state of confusion, nausea, and feeling like you are in a fog, ringing in the ears or vomiting.
Treatment for concussion
Specific treatment for concussions is yet to be established. However, limiting pressure to the brain and allowing it to rest by going slow on stressful activities such as sports, video games, TV and social activities such as clubbing. In cases of headaches and instances of nausea, treatment for the same could help reduce the concussion. Nutritional supplements can also be an effective treatment for concussions as discussed below:
- Proteins
Plenty of dietary protein is required to repair the damage to the brain-derived Neutrophic factor (BDNF) that is responsible for healing damaged neurons. It is recommended that you should aim for an intake of 1 gram per kilogram of your body weight in order to efficiently achieve this.
- Creatine
This increases the production of energy in the brain that in turn prevents damage that is caused by traumatic injuries to the brain. The creatine that is administered as a supplement helps retain the function of mitochondria by giving the brain an energy boost.
- Fish oil
It contains omega3 fatty acids that reduce inflammation of the brain and build strong and flexible cell membranes. It also raises levels of the BDNF.
- Vitamin D
It helps protect the neuron and prevents post-concussion syndromes from being experienced for long periods of time.
- Magnesium
It is a necessary mineral for the functioning of the brain. It helps in the production of neurotransmitters that help neurons communicate with each other thus send signals. It also insulates against delayed brain injury and syndromes that occur after the concussion.
- Glutathione
It is the most abundant natural antioxidant in the body. It is administered intravenously and can reduce damage to the tissues of the brain by 70%.
Always seek doctors advice before using any form of supplements.