Concussion Recovery Guide: What Do I Do Now?

Introduction

A concussion is a mild traumatic brain injury caused by a bump, blow, or jolt to the head. This guide will help you understand what to do immediately after a concussion, warning signs to watch for, and steps for proper recovery.

Immediate Steps After a Suspected Concussion

Rest and stop activity immediately

  • Stop playing sports or physical activities

  • Sit down in a quiet, safe place

  • Avoid moving if you're experiencing severe pain or disorientation

Seek medical attention

  • Visit an emergency room or urgent care if the injury seems severe

  • See a healthcare provider within 1-2 days for all suspected concussions

  • Call 911 immediately if there are any severe or worsening symptoms

Have someone stay with you

  • Don't be alone for the first 24 hours after a concussion

  • Have someone monitor your symptoms

  • Avoid driving until cleared by a healthcare professional

Warning Signs Requiring Immediate Medical Attention

Call 911 or go to the emergency room immediately if you notice:

  • Severe headache that gets worse over time

  • Repeated vomiting or ongoing nausea

  • Seizures or convulsions

  • Loss of consciousness, even briefly

  • Inability to wake up or extreme drowsiness

  • One pupil larger than the other

  • Slurred speech

  • Increased confusion, restlessness, or agitation

  • Weakness or numbness in arms or legs

  • Inability to recognize people or places

  • Unusual behavior or personality changes

Common Concussion Symptoms to Monitor

Physical Symptoms

  • Headache or pressure in the head

  • Dizziness or balance problems

  • Nausea or vomiting

  • Sensitivity to light or noise

  • Feeling sluggish, groggy, or foggy

  • Vision problems (blurry or double vision)

  • Sleep disturbances (sleeping more or less than usual)

Cognitive Symptoms

  • Difficulty thinking clearly or concentrating

  • Feeling slowed down

  • Memory problems

  • Confusion or disorientation

  • Trouble answering questions

Emotional Symptoms

  • Irritability

  • Sadness

  • Nervousness or anxiety

  • More emotional than usual

  • Personality changes

Recovery Steps

First 24-48 Hours

  • Physical rest: Limit physical activities and get plenty of sleep

  • Cognitive rest: Reduce activities that require mental concentration

  • Avoid screens: Minimize use of phones, computers, TV, and other devices

  • Take acetaminophen (Tylenol) for pain if recommended by your doctor

  • Avoid alcohol, recreational drugs, and sleep aids

  • Do not take aspirin or ibuprofen without medical approval, as they can increase risk of bleeding

Days 3-7

  • Gradually return to normal activities as symptoms improve

  • Start with light cognitive activities like reading or short conversations

  • Begin very light physical activity when approved by your doctor

  • Continue to avoid activities with risk of head impact

  • Track your symptoms to monitor progress

Extended Recovery

  • Follow your healthcare provider's guidance for return to school, work, or sports

  • Return to activities gradually using a step-by-step approach

  • Rest if symptoms return or worsen during recovery

  • Be patient – recovery can take days, weeks, or sometimes months

Return to Play/Activity Guidelines

Follow these gradual steps, only moving to the next level if you remain symptom-free for 24 hours:

  1. Rest completely until symptom-free

  2. Light aerobic exercise (walking, swimming, stationary cycling)

  3. Sport-specific exercise without impact activities

  4. Non-contact training drills

  5. Full-contact practice (after medical clearance)

  6. Return to regular play/activity

When to See a Specialist

Consider seeing a concussion specialist if:

  • Symptoms persist beyond 2-4 weeks

  • Recovery seems slower than expected

  • You've had multiple concussions

  • Symptoms significantly impact daily life

  • You're an athlete needing return-to-play guidance

Resources

Disclaimer: This guide is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare provider following any head injury.