Concussions, CTE and CBD – Protecting the Brain
The consequences of head trauma are very real. A concussion, the most common type of traumatic brain injury, results in temporary loss of brain function. Concussions do not necessarily require someone to become unconscious or ‘knocked out’. Some concussions, even occur without any external signs of trauma. Repeated concussions can even lead to Chronic Traumatic Encephalopathy or CTE. A degenerative disease that destroys the brain and has affected some of the greatest athletes in sports.
Common Causes for Concussions
The most common causes of concussion are
- Contact sports like football, lacrosse, boxing & MMA
o https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=q12VreVqyCw
o https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kwWNC2aQeI4
- Car Accidents
o https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-kQ58M22tNY
o https://www.roadandtrack.com/motorsports/a24892288/dale-jr-concussions/
- Accidental Falls
Concussion symptoms can include severe headaches, confusion, lack of coordination, memory loss, nausea, dizziness, restlessness or fatigue. Other systems that may present themselves overtime include mood changes (namely depression), sensitivity to light and slurred speech.
Preventing concussions and head trauma is the best first step to promote longevity and your high-functioning brain.
The simple stuff, like wearing protective gear during sports, being a good training partner in contact sports, buckling your seatbelt and safeguarding your home (think handrails, shower mats etc.) will do a lot of good in preventing unnecessary risks.
However, we can’t bubble wrap the world, so what do we do if we experience a concussion?
Interestingly, treatment for concussions is still being explored, developed and debated.
See a Doctor
They can help diagnose a concussion and confirm it isn’t something more or less serious. We always recommend this as option #1
https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/brain-trauma/201409/when-concussion-is-not-concussion
Do Not Return to the Activity
Everyone likes to ‘tough it out’ or ‘shake it off’, especially in the height of competition. That is exactly the opposite of what you should do. If you do have a concussion returning to the game or match in a compromised state can make your condition even worse. Today, many leagues have concussion protocols on the sideline to ensure those who are injured do not return to activity. Just because you can’t see the injury, like a broken bone, doesn’t mean it doesn’t exist.
CBD Oil for Inflammation and Symptoms
Studies show CBD oil for inflammation reduces inflammation and swelling, even in the brain, without causing reduced cognitive function. Cannabidiol (CBD) is a cannabinoid which interacts with our bodies endocannabinoid system. When this interaction happens, the endocannabinoid system works to bring the body back into homeostasis (balance). Our body is able to calm down the inflammation if it is given the proper “tools” to do so.
Another factor where CBD oil for inflammation comes in handy is as it relates to symptoms from head injuries. As talked about in some of the information given earlier in this article, when a person suffers a traumatic head injury, some of the symptoms can relate to various symptoms of the brain.
Studies are showing positive results as it relates to CBD oil for anxiety and depression, which are common side effects of concussions, CTE and other traumatic head injuries.
As always, contact your doctor before taking CBD oil or any new supplement especially when dealing with a head injury.
Turn off the Gadgets and Bright Lights
Bright lights, sounds and screens can cause post-concussion symptoms and headaches to become worse. Focus on your post trauma-recovery by turning down the lights, turning off the phone and limiting the use of other electronics.
Even if you don’t recognize it initially, the affects from head and brain trauma, particularly repeated trauma can cause a variety of aliments and alter your mood and cognition. Focus on your recovery and don’t try to be the ‘tough guy or girl’. Your brain is your control center and just like an arm in a cast, it needs the appropriate time to heal correctly.
Have any other tips for dealing with concussion or head trauma? Let us know in the comment section!