Samantha on getting a concussion on ‘Citadel: Honey Bunny’ set: ‘I completely blanked out, nobody took me to the hospital’

“When you get a concussion, your brain is subjected to sudden acceleration or deceleration forces, causing damage to brain cells and disrupting normal function. This leads to impaired neural connections, altered neurotransmitter release, and temporary changes in brain chemistry,” said Dr Prakash Rathod, senior consultant, neurosurgery, Fortis Cunningham Road, Bengaluru. Symptoms include confusion, dizziness, headache, nausea, and disorientation.

Dr Hema Krishna P, Consultant – Neurology and Movement Disorders, Aster CMI Hospital, Bangalore shared that during a concussion, the brain’s neurons may become overstimulated, resulting in a cascade of biochemical reactions that can cause inflammation and metabolic disturbances. This disruption can affect cognitive functions, such as memory and concentration, and may also lead to physical symptoms like headaches, dizziness, and balance issues.

“The body’s response to a concussion can include alterations in sleep patterns and emotional regulation, highlighting the complex interplay between the brain and the body’s overall health,” she added.

Warning signs of a concussion:

If you or someone you know has suffered a blow to the head or body, watch for these signs:

– Loss of consciousness or confusion
– Difficulty remembering things
– Dizziness or balance problems
– Headache or pressure in the head
– Nausea or vomiting, blurred vision, or light sensitivity
– Slurred speech or difficulty concentrating
– Irritability or emotional instability

If you notice any of these symptoms, seek medical attention immediately.

If a concussion is suspected, immediate treatment is crucial. “Start by resting and avoiding strenuous activities, and monitoring the individual closely with the guidance of a medical professional. Apply ice or a cold compress to the affected area to reduce swelling,” said Dr Rathod. Take pain relief medication only if it’s recommended by a doctor.

Dr Rathod suggested avoiding screens and electronic devices, staying hydrated, and following return-to-play protocols for athletes.

Let’s understand if there is a connect (Source: Freepik)

How is a regular concussion different from one that occurs with myositis?

A concussion occurring with myositis (an autoimmune disorder) differs from a regular concussion in its underlying causes due to autoimmune inflammatory response which affects muscle, blood vessels, joints, skin and endocrine gland( pituitary gland).

Concussions in individuals with myositis—an autoimmune disorder—differ from regular concussions due to the inflammatory response affecting muscles, blood vessels, joints, skin and even the pituitary gland.

“Myositis-related concussions may be exacerbated by muscle weakness, inflammation, or conditions like dermatomyositis. They can also worsen dysfunction of the hypothalamus-pituitary system,” said Dr Rathod.

“Regular concussions, on the other hand, are usually caused due to direct head trauma. Myositis-related concussions require careful consideration of the underlying disease and possible interactions with immunosuppressive treatments,” he said.

*DISCLAIMER: This article is based on information from the public domain and/or the experts we spoke to. Always consult your health practitioner before starting any routine.*