Concussions are classified as traumatic brain injuries, which makes the recovery period critical. The symptoms of a concussion can range from mild to severe and may last anywhere from a few days to weeks after the incident.

This is why it’s so important to seek medical attention immediately after experiencing any kind of head injury. A doctor will be able diagnose the intensity of the concussion and provide the necessary treatments.

The average recovery time from a concussion is between seven to 10 days, but that could vary depending on the severity of the injury. The more extreme injuries can lead to post-concussion syndrome, which entails lingering symptoms (i.e., headache, vertigo, personality changes, fatigue, etc.) that may persist for weeks or months following the initial concussion.

Schedule an appointment with your doctor if your symptoms continue for more than 10 days.

How Does a Concussion Occur?

Concussions are common brain injuries that people may suffer after getting into a car accident, slipping, tripping and falling or sustaining a head injury while playing a sport. They are a result of direct or indirect impact to the head that forces the brain to collide with the inside of the skull. This sudden jolt traumatizes the brain and decreases mental stamina — meaning the concussed brain must work harder and longer to complete simple tasks.

What Are the Symptoms of a Concussion?

• Loss of consciousness on impact
• Headache
• Blurred vision
• Fatigue
• Dizziness or vertigo
• Light sensitivity
• Lack of balance
• Vomiting or nausea
• Sudden mood changes (depression, bouts of crying, etc.)
• Difficulty sleeping
• Trouble hearing
• Poor memory

Tips For a Speedy Recovery After a Concussion

Every patient’s recovery is different, which is why it’s a good idea to visit a health care provider who can perform diagnostics, prescribe the best treatment for your injury and set recovery expectations. Whether a patient’s symptoms are mild or severe, following these universal steps can contribute to a quick and full recovery.

1. Take it easy and get plenty of rest. Someone with a concussion should get a minimum of eight to 10 hours of sleep each night if possible.
   
2. Avoid screens and bright lights. Minimizing screen time (phone, laptop, TV, etc.) allows the brain to relax and reduces eyestrain. Bright lights tend to worsen concussion symptoms, so darkening curtains and very low light may help relieve stress on the brain.
   
   
3. Stay away from caffeine and keep hydrated. Studies show there is a possible connection between concussions and dehydration. The risk of a concussion is higher in people who are dehydrated. Hydration is key to healing and maintaining overall health.
   
   
4. Minimize unnecessary movements and pause exercise. During the recovery period, patients with a concussion should avoid all activities that can jolt or jostle the head or neck. This includes running, exercising, jumping or playing sports.
   
   
5. Follow the doctor’s orders. Recovery times can be minimal as long as a patient adheres to treatment instructions. A doctor may recommend taking time off work or prescribe medications for symptoms. Anything that a doctor says is medically necessary is a must.

When Do Concussions Become Dangerous?

Most concussions will resolve on their own with proper treatment and ample rest, but there is always a slight risk that symptoms could worsen and pose a threat to a patient’s health.

Go to the emergency room immediately if any of the following symptoms occur after a concussion:

• Seizures
• Loss of consciousness
• Trouble swallowing
• Paralysis
• Repeated vomiting
• Slurred speech
• Weakness or numbness in the legs or arms
• Double vision
• Worsening headaches
• Increased heart rate

Specialized Concussion and Injury Care in Atlanta, Georgia

Accidents happen every single day, which is why Georgia residents rely on injury centers like HURT911 to treat their car accident injuries. Our medical team is trained to diagnose and treat injuries caused by workplace-related accidents, slip and fall accidents and car crashes.

If you’ve been injured in an accident, don’t wait to seek medical care. Symptoms of an injury (like whiplash, a concussion or shoulder pain) can take hours or days to appear, which is why a visit to the doctor can be so important to your health.

Our doctors and board-certified chiropractors can quickly detect signs of injury and develop a personalized treatment plan to get you on the path to recovery. Schedule your same-day appointment with us by calling 1-800-HURT-911.