Several things can help reduce the severity and length of symptoms.
Rest Is Essential Immediately Following a Concussion
The most important step in concussion recovery is getting plenty of rest, which is necessary to help the brain heal. People with a concussion should get plenty of sleep at night and rest during the day. If you live alone, ask someone to stay with you for the first 48 hours so they can look out for problems, including changes in your behavior or difficulties concentrating or understanding. Try to avoid situations that will cause you stress.
Avoid Contact or Recreational Sports After a Concussion
Keep Track of Things That Are Harder for You to Remember
Until your symptoms go away, ask a family member or close friend for help in making important decisions.
Talk With Your Doctor Before Returning to Normal Activities
When your healthcare provider gives you the go-ahead to return to your normal activities, do so gradually, not all at once. Ask your physician when you can return to work and talk with your employer about your condition. Consider asking about returning to work gradually, including working half days and changing your work activities until you recover. Since your ability to react may be slower after a concussion, consult with your doctor about when you can safely ride a bike, drive a car, or operate heavy machinery.
Concussion Recovery in Children
Parents may also wish to speak to teachers, coaches, counselors, babysitters, other parents, siblings, and any one else who interacts with the child to help them understand what happened to the child and what they can do to help in recovery.
When Concussions Become More Serious
The severity of these complications varies significantly, as does the treatment. Some may clear up on their own, while others can require treatment with medication. Hospitalization is necessary in some cases, and certain patients may need surgery. Look out for danger signs after a concussion, including a headache that gets worse and does not go away; weakness, numbness, or decreased coordination; repeated vomiting or nausea; and slurred speech. Get to your doctor or an emergency room right away if you are experiencing these symptoms after a concussion so a physician can find out what is wrong and determine a treatment plan.
Look very drowsy or cannot wake upHave one pupil larger than the otherHave seizures or convulsionsCannot recognize people or placesAre getting more confused, restless, or agitatedAre behaving unusuallyLose consciousness
