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Concussion (Head Injury)

A concussion is an injury to the brain usually caused by a blow to the head. In most cases, it does not involve a loss of consciousness. When you've bumped your head, it's important to know:

  • the symptoms of a concussion 
  • how it should be treated. 
  • what are the lasting effects

What are the symptoms of a concussion?

Early Signs

  • Headache
  • Dizziness
  • Confusion
  • Ringing in the ears
  • Nausea
  • Vomiting
  • Vision changes or blurred vision
  • Loss of balance

Later Signs

  • Memory disturbances
  • Poor concentration
  • Irritability
  • Sleep disturbance
  • Personality changes or unusual behavior
  • antique or drowsiness
  • difficulty arousing
  • Unequal pupil size
  • Colorless fluid from ears and nose
  • Slowing of pulse
  • Seizure of unconsciousness

How should it be treated?

The best treatment for a concussion is rest and careful observation. The initial symptoms of a concussion are similar to those of more serious head injuries. The only difference is that symptoms related to a concussion show improvement over a short period of time. If symptoms are worsening or not improving, there may be swelling or bleeding inside the skull. Most individuals can be safely observed at home by friends, roommates, or family. In fact, friends and family members may be better at noticing changes in behavior that a medical provider (that does not know the patient as well) might miss.

What should you do?

  • take acetaminophen for a headache (i.e. Tylenol)
  • eat a light diet (especially if you're feeling nauseous).
  • get plenty of rest and keep activity light
  • watch for signs of later symptoms
  • if symptoms increase or do not improve within 24 hours, call Gannett (255-5155).

You should avoid

  • any medications that cause drowsiness or changes in level of consciousness (pain medications, alcohol, sleeping pills, muscle relaxants, tranquilizers or recreational drugs)
  • a heavy diet (may cause vomiting)
  • strenuous activity
  • operating heavy machinery
  • hitting your head again (especially within 3 months after your recovery)

Recovery time

You should never return to sports or any sort of strenuous activity while you still have signs of a concussion, like headache or dizziness. If your concussion is very mild, you may be able to be active after 15 to 20 minutes. But if you've had memory loss or loss of consciousness, you may not be able to return heavy activity for one to two weeks. After a severe concussion or repeated head injury, you may not be able to return to sports or vigorous activity for at least a month, sometimes longer. Never return to a heavy activity level after a major concussion until you've been cleared by a doctor.

What are the lasting effects?

While signs of concussion can last for weeks to months, most people recover without any permanent damage. Repeated concussions should be avoided at all costs. If you return to sports too early, you risk suffering from "second impact syndrome." There is evidence that repeated head injuries over time (especially within 3 months of each other) can result in permanent brain damage and sometimes even death. After several concussions, most doctors will recommend that you considering changing sports or current activities.

Print our Fact Sheet on this topic.

Questions? Concerns?

We can help.

255-5155

• make an appointment 
• get more information
• consult with a health care provider or counselor
• talk with a patient advocate