What to do After a Concussion

What you’ll find on this page

• What to expect when you see a medical professional for a possible concussion
• Tips for what information to share with your medical professional about the injury
• Advice on what to do if you are diagnosed with a concussion

People with a possible concussion need to be checked by a medical professional

You might feel anxious, afraid, or uncertain if you think you have experienced a concussion. These feelings are normal. You can play an active role in your recovery by getting checked by a medical professional. Getting medical care after a concussion can help speed up your recovery. Medical professionals can do tests to aid in diagnosing a concussion and have treatments to help you feel better.

Medical professionals usually check for a concussion by asking how the injury happened and the symptoms a person is experiencing. They may also do a physical exam (including a visio-vestibular exam and balance assessment). Be sure to tell your medical professional if you are taking medications (prescription, over-the-counter medicines, or natural remedies). When possible, share any relevant information about the injury, including:

• Any loss of consciousness (passed out/knocked out), and if so, for how long
• Any memory loss right after the injury
• Any seizures right after the injury
• Number of previous concussions (if any) and past medical history

Medical professionals may also do tests to help assess your reaction time, memory skills, and ability to pay attention. These tests are called “neuropsychological” or “neurocognitive” tests. They help medical professionals identify the effects of a concussion.

Follow instructions from your medical professional after being diagnosed with a concussion

Your medical professional can develop a treatment plan and give you instructions to help with your recovery.^3-6 Ideally, these instructions will be based on your specific symptoms. Concussion symptoms may make it difficult to do your regular daily activities. So, be sure to ask for information about how to safely return to driving, school, work, and physical activities and sports. And don’t forget to schedule a follow-up appointment with your medical professional so that they can check in on your recovery.

Compassionate answers. Real support. Every step of the way.

Contact the National Brain Injury Information Center at 1-800-444-6443 to speak to a specialist about:

• Help with care needs
• Legal and financial resources
• Services in your community

References

1. Suskauer SJ, Rane S, Reesman J, Slomine BS. Caregiver-report of symptoms following traumatic brain injury in a small clinical sample of preschool-aged children. Journal of pediatric rehabilitation medicine. 2018;11(1):7–14. doi:10.3233/prm-160424

2. Virginia Concussion Initiative. Concussion Recognition and Response for Those with Intellectual Disabilities or Developmental Disabilities. Accessed March, 2024. https://concussion.gmu.edu/sites/default/files/2021-06/Concussion%20Recognition%20and%20Response%20%28Intellectual%20Disabilities%29%20061721.pdf

3. Lumba-Brown A, Yeates KO, Sarmiento K, et al. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention guideline on the diagnosis and management of mild traumatic brain injury among children. JAMA Pediatr. 2018;172(11):e182853–e182853.

4. Reed N, Zemek R, Dawson J, et al. Living guideline for pediatric concussion care (PedsConcussion). 2022. https://www.cdc.gov/traumaticbraininjury/pdf/Report_to_Congress_on_Traumatic_Brain_Injury_2013-a.pdf

5. Marshall S LA, Curran D, Fischer L, Velikonja D, Bayley M. Living Concussion Guidelines: Guideline for Concussion & Prolonged Symptoms for Adults 18 years of Age or Older. Accessed November 13, 2024. https://concussionsontario.org

6. Valente JH, Anderson JD, Paolo WF, et al. Clinical Policy: Critical Issues in the Management of Adult Patients Presenting to the Emergency Department With Mild Traumatic Brain Injury: Approved by ACEP Board of Directors, February 1, 2023 Clinical Policy Endorsed by the Emergency Nurses Association (April 5, 2023). Ann Emerg Med. May 2023;81(5):e63–e105. doi:10.1016/j.annemergmed.2023.01.014