Diagnosis of Concussion
Diagnosis of concussion is largely clinical, meaning it’s based on observing symptoms and understanding the circumstances of the injury. Because a concussion doesn’t usually show up on standard imaging tests like X-rays or CT scans, healthcare professionals rely on patient history and neurological examination to make a diagnosis.
Initial Assessment
Doctors start by asking questions about:
How the injury occurred
Whether there was a loss of consciousness
The presence and timing of symptoms like memory loss or confusion
They may also ask witnesses or family members for information, especially if the patient can’t recall the incident clearly.
Neurological Examination | Diagnosis of Concussion
This typically includes:
Checking pupil response and eye movements
Evaluating coordination and balance
Testing reflexes
Assessing speech and motor skills
Memory and attention testing
These assessments help determine the extent of brain function disruption.
Cognitive Tests
Special tools may be used to measure cognitive performance:
SCAT5 (Sport Concussion Assessment Tool)
ImPACT (Immediate Post-Concussion Assessment and Cognitive Testing)
These tools help establish a baseline and track recovery over time.
Imaging Tests | Diagnosis of Concussion
Although not required for diagnosing concussion, doctors may order:
CT scans: If there is suspicion of bleeding or a skull fracture
MRI scans: In prolonged cases or if symptoms worsen without explanation
These scans are used to rule out more serious injuries, not to confirm a concussion.
Child-Specific Considerations
Diagnosing concussion in children requires extra care, as they may not describe symptoms clearly. Paediatric tools and parental input play a vital role in accurate diagnosis.
In summary, the diagnosis of concussion relies on thorough clinical evaluation and an understanding of symptom progression. While imaging is useful in specific scenarios, early and careful assessment is key to managing this hidden injury effectively.
[Next: Treatment of Concussion →]
