You have been treated for a Concussion. You have been thoroughly examined and are now considered fit to be discharged. The following will aid your recovery.
Concussion and Return to Sport (Aged >15yrs)
What is concussion?
A concussion is a disturbance in brain function caused by a direct or indirect force to the head. It may be thought of as a mild brain injury.
You may experience a variety of non-specific symptoms which may include:
- Headache
- Dizziness, feeling sick
- Poor concentration, memory problems
- You may feel irritable, tired and have some sleep problems.
How long will it last for?
Typically these symptoms will resolve over 7–10 days but this can vary from patient to patient and may last up to 3 months. The more rest you can have over the first week, the quicker the symptoms will improve.
Should I have a brain scan?
Concussion does not show up on a CT or MRI scan. It is diagnosed based on symptoms. Therefore a brain scan will not help.
If you are showing signs of a more serious head injury then an urgent brain scan will be arranged.
Some patients who have severe on going symptoms may still require a scan sometime after the injury.
What can I do to aid recovery?
- Rest (both mental and physical) is extremely important in the first 24–48 hours after a concussion injury. Research has found if you rest for one week at home and then gradually increase activity over the next week you are more likely to be back to normal and be back at work in 3–4 weeks. Those who did not do this took 3 times longer to recover
- Avoid any computer or electronic gaming activities
- No alcohol
- No prescription or non-prescription drugs unless advised by medical practitioner
- Specifically avoid sleeping tablets and aspirin
- Do not drive until symptoms resolve
- Do not train or play sport until medically cleared.
What should I watch for?
You need to be monitored for the next 24 hours by a responsible adult.
If you have any of the following signs or symptoms then you need to seek medical attention:
- Worsening headache despite rest and appropriate analgesia
- Increasing drowsiness
- Vomiting
- Unusual behaviour/confusion
- Fits/seizures
- Unsteady on their feet and slurred speech
If you have any queries you can contact the Emergency Department on 029 20741282/74892
When can I return to play?
You should not return to play the same day as the injury. You should not return to sporting activity for 2 weeks. You can follow a stepwise approach to return to sport. It is vital that your symptoms have completely cleared at each stage for a minimum of 24 hours before you progress to the next stage. If there are any symptoms then you will need to drop back to a stage where you have no symptoms. This is important to allow your brain to heal.
* If you are 19 or under then you must allow 48 hours between stages.
Where there has been unconsciousness or memory loss after the injury then there should be no full contact activity within 3 weeks. In these cases you should have a medical review by your GP or club medic before any full contact activity
My concussion symptoms are not settling after 10 days what should I do?
You can present to the ED to discuss further management. The majority of people will be back to normal within a week to a month.
If your symptoms get worse or you notice a new symptom of concussion this is a sign you are pushing yourself too hard – rest and let your brain heal.
How to cope with fatigue: It is normal to be more tired after a concussion. You may benefit from scheduled rest breaks or daytime naps.
How to cope with poor concentration: the main cause of poor concentration is fatigue. When it becomes difficult to concentrate take a break and relax for 10–15 minutes. Reduce distractions, eg, noise or radio and do not try and do too many things at once.
How to cope with memory problems: some memory problems may be as a result of the injury – which is why you may not remember the accident very well. Most of the memory problems are due to tiredness or fatigue. If you get enough rest you may be able to remember more. Writing things down can help you cope with memory problems.
How to cope with irritability: fatigue is a common cause of being irritable. Adjust your schedule and get more rest when you notice you are becoming more irritable.
How to cope with low mood: people become depressed when unpleasant things happen and concussion is unpleasant. Try and plan to do something enjoyable each day and stick to it.
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