Understanding the Role of NSAIDs After a Concussion
Hey there! I’m Dr. Mark, and today we’re diving deep into a topic that often comes up after a concussion: the role of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like ibuprofen and aspirin. As a concussion specialist with years of experience, I’ve seen a wide range of cases, from collegiate athletes to non-athletic individuals, and I’m here to help you navigate this important aspect of concussion recovery.
What Are NSAIDs and How Do They Work?
First, let’s get a quick overview of what NSAIDs are. These medications include standard options like ibuprofen and naproxen, and they work by blocking specific enzymes in the body known as COX-1 and COX-2. This action reduces the production of prostaglandins, which are chemicals involved in pain, fever, and inflammation. So, when you take an NSAID, you’re generally looking to alleviate pain or swelling.
NSAIDs & Prostaglandins (Source: Dynamed)
Why Avoid NSAIDs in the First 48 Hours?
Now, here’s the kicker: if you or someone you know has just experienced a concussion, it’s crucial to avoid taking any new medications, including NSAIDs, for the first 48 hours post-injury. Why? Because during this acute red flag period, we don’t want to mask any potentially serious or life-threatening symptoms. If you take an NSAID for a headache, you might inadvertently hide a severe issue that requires immediate medical attention.
Recognizing Red Flags
So, what are these red flags? The Concussion Recognition Tool 6 (CRT 6) outlines key symptoms to watch for:
Severe or increasing headache
Repeated vomiting
Loss of consciousness
Double vision or loss of vision
Increased confusion or deteriorating consciousness
Weakness or numbness in limbs
Seizures
Visible deformity of the skull
Agitation or combative behavior
Neck pain or tenderness
If any of these symptoms appear, it’s vital to seek emergency medical care.
After 48 Hours: Can You Take NSAIDs?
If you’ve cleared the red flag stage after 48 hours and are still experiencing headaches, you might be tempted to reach for that ibuprofen bottle. Here’s the blunt truth: while NSAIDs can reduce your headache, they won’t necessarily speed up your recovery from a concussion. They won’t hurt your recovery, but they’re not a magic bullet either.
Symptom Severity and Recovery
When looking to clear someone for return to play, especially athletes, it’s essential to have a clear understanding of their symptom severity. We want to see a low symptom score and normal physical exam findings. If NSAIDs are masking symptoms during these evaluations, we can’t accurately assess recovery. It’s like taking the batteries out of a smoke alarm; just because it’s quiet doesn’t mean there’s no fire.
Consensus statement on concussion in sport—the 5th international conference on concussion in sport held in Berlin, October 2016
Key Takeaways
To summarize:
No new medications, including NSAIDs, for the first 24-48 hours after a concussion.
Be aware of and monitor for red-flag symptoms.
After the initial period, NSAIDs can be used for headache relief but won’t necessarily aid recovery.
Avoid taking NSAIDs for more than 10 consecutive days to reduce the risk of serious side effects.
Always consult with a concussion specialist to ensure safe recovery.
So, there you have it! Understanding the role of NSAIDs in concussion recovery is crucial for making informed decisions about your health. If you’re looking for more information on concussion management, check out my blog on sleep after a concussion and caffeine use post-concussion.
Thanks for tuning in, and until next time, stay safe!
Recover Faster, Perform Better, Live Your Best Life
Whether you're recovering from a concussion, optimizing your performance, or looking to boost your overall health, I’m here to help. Take the first step toward feeling and performing your best.
10 Warning Signs and Red Flags of Concussion
Dr. Mark discusses the 10 warning signs of concussion and the 10 critical red flags you should never ignore. Learn how to spot these life-threatening symptoms early and take action to protect athletes and loved ones. Subscribe here.
Let’s jump in!
Hey there! I’m Dr. Mark, and as a concussion specialist with years of experience dealing with athletes of all levels, I want to dive into something crucial today: recognizing the warning signs of a concussion. Concussions can happen to anyone, from professional athletes to kids playing in the backyard. Understanding the signs can be the difference between a quick recovery and serious complications.
What is a Concussion?
A concussion, also known as a mild traumatic brain injury (mTBI), occurs when a force causes the brain to move rapidly within the skull. This sudden movement can disrupt brain function, leading to various symptoms. While most concussions are not life-threatening, some can be, and that’s where knowing the red flags comes into play.
Understanding Red Flags
In medical terms, a "red flag" indicates something serious may be occurring. After a concussion, certain signs could suggest a more severe injury, such as brain swelling, spinal cord injury, or intracranial bleeding. Recognizing these signs and acting quickly is essential.
10 Critical Warning Signs You Should Never Ignore
Loss of Consciousness: If someone loses consciousness, even briefly, it’s a serious matter that requires immediate medical attention.
Severe Headache: A persistent or worsening headache following a head injury can indicate serious complications.
Repeated Vomiting: Vomiting can be a sign of increased pressure in the brain; it’s not something to ignore.
Double Vision: If someone sees double, this could indicate a serious issue that needs to be evaluated.
Increased Confusion: Worsening confusion or disorientation is a clear red flag that something is wrong.
Weakness or Numbness: If a person experiences weakness or tingling in their limbs, it could point to a spinal injury.
Seizures: Any seizure activity following a concussion is a medical emergency.
Visible Deformity: A noticeable change in the shape of the skull can indicate a fracture.
Agitation or Combative Behavior: Increased restlessness or irritability can suggest serious brain injury.
Neck Pain or Tenderness: This can point to potential spinal injuries and should be evaluated immediately.
What to Do If You Notice These Signs
If you observe any of these signs, it's crucial to act quickly. Call 911 or take the person to the nearest emergency room. Quick action can prevent long-term damage or even save a life.
Tools for Recognition
Having resources on hand as a coach, parent, or athlete is vital. The Concussion Recognition Tool 6 (CRT 6) is a fantastic resource that provides a list of symptoms to watch for. It’s a simple checklist that can help you determine if someone needs medical attention.
Additionally, I recommend using the Concussion Tracker App. This free app allows athletes to take a post-injury assessment, helps track symptoms, and connects you with concussion specialists in your area.
Final Thoughts
Remember, when in doubt, sit them out. Concussions are serious, and recognizing the warning signs early can make all the difference. If you found this information helpful, please share it with others. The more we spread awareness, the safer we can keep our athletes.
For more insights on concussion care and recovery, check out my blog on sleep after a concussion and alcohol consumption post-concussion.
Thanks for reading, and stay safe!
Recover Faster, Perform Better, Live Your Best Life
Whether you're recovering from a concussion, optimizing your performance, or looking to boost your overall health, I’m here to help. Take the first step toward feeling and performing your best.