Published May 2024
Concierge Medical’s advice for managing concussion
Eventing is an exhilarating sport, and while the thrill of competing is undeniable, riders must also be prepared for the inherent risks. As we gallop towards the start of the another Cotswold Cup event, the Private GP’s at Concierge Medical wanted to share their advice for identifying and managing a concussion injury.
The immediate aftermath of a fall can be chaotic and disorienting. It’s essential to stay calm, and take stock of yourself and any potential injuries. At an event, stewards and medical personnel will quickly be by your side to perform initial checks and ensure you get further care if needed. If you fall during your dressage test, or during your show jumping or cross country round you will be eliminated, but if you fall during your warm up, you must be examined by a medical attendee before being allowed to remount and continue.
Even if you feel relatively uninjured after a fall, with no obvious or a mild concussion, it’s important to take care of yourself, avoiding at all costs any possible second impact before you have fully recovered from the first. Our GP’s encourage you to follow these steps if you have an actual or even a suspected concussion. Concussion symptoms can emerge slowly, so ongoing monitoring is key.
Rest: Allow the brain to heal, avoid physical exertion, screen time, and any mentally demanding tasks.
Monitor: Keep a close track of your symptoms such as dizziness, headaches, nausea, memory issues, mood swings, feeling tired and being sensitive to light or sound. If any of these symptoms appear or get worse, seek medical attention, sometimes mental health support is needed as concussion can trigger depression and anxiety.
Take it slow: Return to normal activities slowly, avoiding high risk activities and the potential for second impact until cleared by your doctor.
Eat well: Eat a balanced diet and avoid recreational drugs and alcohol as they will interfere with your brains healing
Communicate: Whatever your situation, whether you are at school, work, or at home, ensure those you are in contact with regularly are aware and can also monitor your signs and symptoms
It’s important to note that symptoms may not always be immediately apparent and can vary in severity from person to person. If you suspect a concussion, it’s crucial to seek medical attention promptly for evaluation and appropriate management. If you aren’t sure if you or your child might have concussion, please look out for the following physical, and emotional symptoms
- Headache or pressure in the head
- Dizziness or loss of balance
- Nausea or vomiting
- Blurred vision or sensitivity to light
- Fatigue or drowsiness or difficulty sleeping
- Loss of consciousness (in severe cases)
- Confusion or feeling mentally foggy
- Difficulty concentrating or remembering
- Irritability or mood swings
- Anxiety or nervousness
- Sadness or depression
Remember, every concussion is unique and recovery timelines can vary from person to person. Be patient and if you have any concerns about your recovery, get in touch with your doctor as soon as possible.
About Concierge Medical
Concierge Medical is the leading home-visiting private GP service, providing medical services to our members across the Cotswolds and Warwickshire since 2013. Our members enjoy continuity of care and direct access to their GP, with no limits on the length or frequency of consultations. Because we understand the importance of speaking to a doctor when it really matters, our 24/7 urgent advice line provides peace of mind every day of the year.
We will always advocate the best personal treatment that you require, should you need an onward referral we will work tirelessly to find the best options that are available either locally or nationally. We’ll help you take ownership of your health and support you through the journey.
To find out more, visit our website, or simply give us a call.
Our practice line: 01451 600900
Our practice website: www.conciergemedical.co.uk