A mine explosion, a shock wave from a shell, or a loud sound from a rocket explosion can all cause concussion.
Signs of mild concussion:
- loss of consciousness from several minutes to several hours;
- disorientation, memory impairment, severe headache;
- nausea, vomiting;
- problems with hearing and vision;
- sudden changes in psycho-emotional state.
The term "concussion" is gradually falling out of use, as it refers to a brain concussion caused by an explosive wave. Nowadays, the term mild traumatic brain injury is used. Therefore, in the case of a more severe brain injury, the following symptoms may also occur:
- loss of balance;
- compressive pain in the head or neck;
- tingling or loss of sensation in the fingers and toes;
- inability to move the limbs;
- respiratory distress, cramps, drowsiness;
- discharge of blood, clear liquid from the mouth, nose and ears.
If at least some of these symptoms are present, call an ambulance immediately. While you are waiting for the paramedics, give the victim first aid.
In addition to traumatic brain injuries, a person may have internal organ damage and fractures – take this into account when providing first aid.
First aid in case of concussion
- Assess your own safety, because only then you will be useful to the victim.
- If the injured person's condition allows, move the person to safety and place them on their back.
- Cover the victim.
- Check for: critical bleeding (stop it); airway patency (restore it); breathing (if absent, start cardiopulmonary resuscitation); presence of other wounds (treat them, stop the bleeding).
- Free the chest and neck if the clothing is restricting the victim's breathing.