Concussions at a glance

Richmond, Va. --

About concussions

What is a concussion?

A concussion is a mild form of traumatic brain injury caused by a bump, blow or jolt to the head. Concussions also can occur from a fall or a blow to the body that causes the head to move rapidly back and forth. Doctors may describe these injuries as mild because concussions are usually not life-threatening. Even so, their effects can be serious. Concussions are a common type of sports injury.

National Library of Medicine, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention

How common are concussions?

Each year, an estimated 1.7 million people suffer a traumatic brain injury in the U.S. About 75 percent are mild traumatic brain injuries or concussions. Of those suffering a traumatic brain injury, about 52,000 die, 275,000 are hospitalized, and 1.4 million are treated and released from an emergency department. The number of people who suffer a concussion and do not seek treatment or who are treated in places other than emergency rooms is not known.

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention

What are the top causes of concussions? (based on emergency department data)

falls

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Concussions at a glance