A concussion is a type of brain injury and one of the most common brain injuries among children and adults. It occurs when a bump, blow, or jolt to the head, or a hit to the body that causes the head and brain to move rapidly back and forth, disrupts normal brain function.

This sudden movement can cause the brain to bounce or twist inside the skull, leading to temporary changes in brain chemistry and, in some cases, stretching or damage to brain cells. These changes can affect how a person thinks, learns, feels, behaves, and functions.

Symptoms often appear immediately after the injury but may also develop over the hours or days that follow. A person does not have to lose consciousness to sustain a concussion. Even without a loss of consciousness, a concussion can cause confusion, feeling dazed, memory problems, or other changes in thinking and behavior.

The Brain Injury Association of New York State has a library of resources to help with concussion at any stage of life.

The information provided on this website is intended for general informational purposes only and should not be used as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. If you believe you may have sustained a brain injury or are experiencing a medical emergency, please contact a qualified healthcare professional or seek immediate medical attention.