Blog

Concussion, also known as mild traumatic brain injury, is one of the most underrated and insidious forms of brain injury. It is often overlooked, as it may not be accompanied by loss of consciousness or show no findings on imaging tests. However, its consequences, both short-term and long-term, can significantly affect a person’s quality of life, lasting from weeks to years. 

What is a concussion?

A concussion is the result of a sudden impact or violent vibration of the brain within the skull, which causes temporary dysfunction of the neural circuits. It can occur after a fall, a car accident, a sporting activity or any blow to the head. 

Although it is characterized as a “mild” form of traumatic brain injury, the term often creates complacency. In fact, the consequences can be significant and long-lasting, affecting many aspects of daily life. 

What are the symptoms of a concussion?

The symptoms of a concussion can appear immediately, but often appear even weeks or months after the injury. The most common are:

• Brain Fog: Persistent feeling of confusion and difficulty thinking clearly. Patients describe having difficulty concentrating or processing information properly

• Zoning Out – Feeling cut off from the environment: Momentary “absence”, where someone seems to be lost for a few seconds, with no clear sense of place or time. Often referred to as a feeling of “being elsewhere”.

• Memory disorders: Difficulty recalling recent events, forgetfulness of daily obligations or repetitive questions

• Fatigue: Persistent and unexplained exhaustion, even without physical activity. Mental fatigue is also often observed

• Inability to concentrate: Easy distraction, difficulty completing tasks, and intolerance to intense stimuli (e.g. lights, noises)

• Mood and personality disorders: People who were calm may experience irritability, depressed mood, or increased anxiety. These changes often affect interpersonal relationships and work performance

Who is affected?

Concussion can happen to anyone, regardless of age or fitness. However, certain groups are at higher risk:

• Athletes, especially in contact sports (e.g. football, basketball, karate)

• Drivers or passengers in traffic accidents

• Elderly, due to more frequent falls

• Children and adolescents, as their brains are in a phase of development

• People who have already suffered a concussion in the past, as the risk of cumulative damage

The frequency of repeated injuries in a short period of time can lead to post-concussion syndrome, which requires long-term treatment

How is a concussion diagnosed?

The diagnosis of a concussion is mainly clinical, that is, it is based on the patient’s history and symptoms.  

The doctor will evaluate:

• The severity and duration of symptoms 

• Any loss of consciousness or amnesia

• The incidence of phenomena such as brain fog or inability to concentrate 

In addition, CT or MRI scanscan rule out more serious brain damage. In particular, advanced MRI techniques that examine for possible post-traumatic brain dysfunction at rest as well as methods for detecting microtraumas in nerve fibers are sensitive for diagnosing concussion even and when conventional CT or MRI scans are negative for findings. In more persistent cases, neuropsychological tests or memory and cognitive function tests are used to accurately assess the extent of the disorder. 

After a concussion is diagnosed

Full recovery requires rest, avoidance of physical and mental strain, and a gradual return to daily activities. If symptoms persist, it may be necessary:

• Physical therapy for balance problems or headaches

• Neuropsychological support

• Psychological counseling, especially in cases of emotional transitions

• Medication, if anxiety, insomnia or depression

A concussion is never “just a bump on the head.” Its effects can be disproportionate to the initial injury and seriously affect quality of life. Awareness, early recognition of symptoms, and proper rehabilitation are key to avoiding long-term consequences.

If you suspect that you or a loved one has suffered a concussion, even weeks or months ago, don’t ignore the signs. An early diagnosis and an individualized rehabilitation plan can make all the difference.

It is worth noting thatProfessor Sotirios Bisdas is ranked, according to the recent Elsevier “Updated science-wide author databases” (2025), in the 2% of the most cited and influential clinical researchers worldwide. This distinction recognizes the contribution of his many years of work in the fields of Medical Imaging, Advanced Neuroimaging and Oncology, highlighting the critical role that the convergence of advanced imaging techniques plays in shaping personalized therapy.