Concussion: First Aid Recognition, Brain Safety, and Injury Prevention in Canada

A concussion is a common form of traumatic brain injury (TBI) caused by a blow or jolt to the head or body that causes the brain to move rapidly inside the skull. Concussions can result from both minor and severe impacts, and they are not always immediately obvious.

From a first aid, CPR, and workplace safety perspective, concussions are especially important because symptoms may appear subtle at first, yet the injury can have serious short- and long-term effects, particularly when head injuries are repeated or ignored.

This article is provided for education and safety awareness only and does not replace medical advice.

Why Concussions Matter for First Aid and Safety

Concussions are a major concern in:

Sports and recreational activities
Workplaces with fall or impact risks
Motor vehicle collisions
Winter activities such as skiing and snowboarding

Even when a head injury seems mild, the brain can be significantly affected. Research shows that concussion temporarily disrupts normal brain function—sometimes comparable to patterns seen in more severe brain injuries.

Returning to activity too soon greatly increases the risk of permanent brain damage.

What Happens During a Concussion?

A concussion occurs when rapid movement causes the brain to shift or twist inside the skull. This sudden motion:

Disrupts brain cell communication
Triggers abnormal electrical activity
Impairs memory, balance, and thinking

Unlike cuts or fractures, concussions often have no visible signs, which is why first aid awareness is critical.

Signs and Symptoms of a Concussion

Early (Immediate) Symptoms

These may appear right after the injury or within minutes:

Disorientation
Confusion
Memory loss (before or after the injury)
Dizziness or balance problems
Headache
Nausea or vomiting
Ringing in the ears (tinnitus)
Unequal pupil size
Visual disturbances
Loss of consciousness (not always present)

Delayed (Late) Symptoms

These may develop hours or days later:

Difficulty concentrating
Memory problems
Sleep disturbances
Fatigue
Irritability
Mood or personality changes

Because delayed symptoms are common, ongoing monitoring is essential after any head injury.

High-Risk Activities: Skiing and Snowboarding

In Canada, concussions and other traumatic brain injuries are increasingly reported among skiers and snowboarders.

Contributing factors include:

Higher speeds
Jumping and aerial tricks
Collisions with obstacles or other riders

Helmet use significantly reduces the risk of head injury and is strongly recommended for winter sports participants of all ages.

First Aid Response: What to Do Immediately

A concussion is usually triggered by a severe head trauma in which the brain violently moves inside the skull

If a concussion is suspected:

Stop the activity immediately
Do not allow the person to return to play or work
Keep the person under observation
Seek medical assessment as soon as possible

Even if symptoms improve quickly, the brain still needs time to heal.

Why “Playing Through It” Is Dangerous

One of the greatest risks with concussion is returning to activity too soon.

Symptoms such as confusion or disorientation may fade within minutes
The brain may still be vulnerable to further injury
A second concussion before recovery can lead to severe brain damage

This is why any suspected concussion requires removal from activity and medical clearance before returning.

Determining When It’s Safe to Return

Deciding when a person can safely return to work, sport, or physical activity should be guided by a healthcare professional.

Modern concussion management emphasizes:

Gradual return to activity
Symptom monitoring
Cognitive and physical rest

First aiders should never make return-to-play or return-to-work decisions on their own.

Workplace and Community Safety Considerations

Concussions can affect:

Reaction time
Judgment
Memory
Balance

These impairments increase the risk of secondary injuries, especially in safety-sensitive roles. Employers and organizations should support:

Early reporting of head injuries
Medical assessment and clearance
Modified duties during recovery

Key Takeaways for Canadians

Concussions can occur even with minor impacts
Symptoms may be delayed or subtle
Repeated concussions increase long-term risk
Immediate removal from activity is essential
Helmets reduce—but do not eliminate—risk

Educational Disclaimer

This article is provided for general education and first aid awareness only. It does not diagnose or treat concussions. Anyone with a suspected head injury should seek professional medical care promptly.