Decision Aids - MDCalc.com

Let's visualize the risk
100 patients just like you
Of 100 patients who get a CT scan...
- 3 patients will have a small bleed or skull fracture on CT that will heal on its own (there's a 3% chance of finding a minor injury that doesn't need treatment).
- 97 patients will have no bleed or skull fracture on CT (there's a 97% chance that a CT will find nothing wrong).
Let's discuss the risk
Studies show that people with LOW RISK injuries do not need a CT scan.

You may have a concussion.

A concussion can happen when the brain moves around in the skull.

A concussion is not a brain bleed.

Concussions do not show up on CT scan. Brain bleeds do.
You may have had a concussion
Concussion symptoms
- "Not feeling right"
- Headache
- Nausea
- Balance problems or dizziness
- Blurry vision
- Confusion, concentration or memory problems
A concussion is not a brain bleed. Concussion symptoms usually go away in a few days to 3 months. 10-30% of people with a concussion have symptoms that last longer.
Brain bleed symptoms
Drowsiness or inability to wake up
Worsening headache
Slurred speech, weakness, numbness, or decreased coordination
Repeated vomiting or seizures
Unusual behavior
Return to the ED if you experience any of these symptoms
How do you treat a concussion?
You may have had a concussion. Your symptoms may start tomorrow. You do NOT need a CT or MRI.
Let the brain heal
- Rest… it’s safe to sleep and be left alone.
- Avoid activities that could cause another injury.
- Do not drink alcohol.
Follow-upYou should follow up with your doctor or a concussion specialist to decide when it is safe to return to normal activities and if additional treatment might help you.

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