How long do concussions last?

In most people, symptoms occur within the first seven to 10 days and go away within three months. Sometimes, they can persist for a year or more. The goal of treatment after concussion is to effectively manage your symptoms.

How long does it take to recover from a concussion?

Concussion recovery and treatment. Approximately 80 percent of concussions resolve over seven to 14 days, with an average of 10 days. People with concussions should never return to sports or other physical activity sooner than one week from sustaining the injury.

What happens if you have a concussion and don’t go to the doctor?

Concussion left untreated can lead to long-term complications. Potential complications of a concussion include chronic headaches, memory problems, vertigo, and post-concussion syndrome, which is headaches, dizziness, mood swings, and brain fog that can continue for months or years after a concussion.

What do you do after a concussion?

Rest (for 1–2 days after the concussion)
  1. Get plenty of sleep (at least 8–10 hours in a 24-hour period).
  2. Keep regular sleep and wake times.
  3. No screen time or listening to loud music before bed.
  4. Avoid caffeine.
  5. Nap during the day, as needed.

Can I sleep with a concussion?

If the person who is injured is awake and holding a conversation, you can let him or her fall asleep as long as they are not developing any other symptoms such as dilated pupils or issues with walking. “Usually after a concussion, a person may be dazed or may vomit,” explains Dr. Alexander.

When should you go to the doctor after hitting your head?

See a doctor within one to two days of a significant head injury with ongoing symptoms, even if emergency care isn’t required. Seek emergency medical attention if your child experiences: Unconsciousness, confusion or disorientation after a head injury.

What are 5 symptoms of a concussion?

  • Headache or “pressure” in head.
  • Nausea or vomiting.
  • Balance problems or dizziness, or double or blurry vision.
  • Bothered by light or noise.
  • Feeling sluggish, hazy, foggy, or groggy.
  • Confusion, or concentration or memory problems.
  • Just not “feeling right,” or “feeling down”.

Should you go to hospital for concussion?

Should I Go to the Hospital for a Concussion? In general, any head injury associated with loss of consciousness, seizures, prolonged confusion or amnesia, neck pain, vomiting or numbness or weakness in arms or legs should be transported to the emergency room in an ambulance right away.

Do you need to see a doctor for a concussion?

You should see your doctor right away or go to the emergency room if you have bad headaches, repeated vomiting, difficulty using your arms or legs, or worsening sleepiness or confusion.

Can you take ibuprofen with a concussion?

If you have a headache, acetaminophen (Tylenol, others) may ease the pain. Avoid taking other pain relievers such as aspirin or ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin IB, others) if you suspect you’ve had a concussion. These may increase the risk of bleeding.

How do you test for a concussion?

If you seek medical care, your doctor will do a concussion assessment that consists of: Balance test: standing with feet together, eyes closed; standing with one foot in front of the other, eyes closed; and standing on one leg with eyes closed.

Should you put ice on a bump on the head?

Applying something cold to the injury for up to 20 minutes will reduce external swelling and pain. When a person has a blow to the head, their brain can be shaken inside the skull as well. This may cause a more serious head injury which may make them feel sick or drowsy.

Can I drink caffeine with a concussion?

Eating well can improve your mood, sleep and mental focus. Try to eat regular meals and snacks. Stay away from stimulants such as coffee, caffeine, pop and energy drinks. Stimulants can put added stress on your brain.

Can you test for a concussion at home?

It’s important to note, though, that there’s no concussion test that can provide a diagnosis at home. While there’s no conclusive type of at-home concussion test, parents and coaches still play an important role in noticing a problem. It’s important to keep an eye out for these specific symptoms: Balance issues.

How do you know if a bump on the head is serious?

When to see a doctor for a bump on the head
  1. A bulging soft spot on the top of the head.
  2. More than expected swelling or bruising.
  3. More fussiness or sleepiness than normal.
  4. Vomiting.
  5. Loss of consciousness or ‘fainting’ immediately after hitting their head.

Can I watch TV with a concussion?

Light Activity (usually within a few days to a week after the concussion) Your child can slowly try more activities, such as going for a walk or watching TV. If symptoms interfere with an activity, your child should take a break from it.

Can you make a concussion worse?

TIPS FOR HEALING ADULTS

They can make your symptoms worse and slow your recovery. Avoid activities, such as contact or recreational sports, that could lead to a second concussion. (It is best to avoid roller coasters or other high speed rides that can make your symptoms worse or even cause a concussion.)

What is the best medication for concussion?

During the first 24 hours acetaminophen (Tylenol) can be used for pain relief. After the first 24 hours, ibuprofen (Advil) and naproxen sodium (Naprosyn, Aleve) are generally more effective for pain relief, and are safe. In some patients, nausea and vomiting can be bothersome, and prescription medications can help.