Concussion
Treatment
An initial neurological evaluation by a health care worker determines appropriate treatment for an uncomplicated concussion. If a blow to the head during athletics leads to a bad headache, a feeling of being confused (dazed), or unconsciousness, a trained person must determine when the person can return to playing sports.
If a child or young adult has lost consciousness, that person should not play sports for a period of 3 months. There is an increased rate of brain injury and occasionally death in persons who have had a previous concussion that resulted in unconsciousness. Concussion complicated by bleeding or brain damage must be treated in a hospital.
Prognosis (Expectations)
Full recovery is expected from an uncomplicated concussion, although prolonged dizziness, memory loss, decreased mental functioning, irritability, headaches, and other symptoms may occur.
Complications
- Bleeding in the brain (intracerebral hemorrhage)
- Brain injury that results in physical, emotional, or intellectual changes or deficits
Calling Your Health Care Provider
Call your health care provider if anyone has a head injury that produces unconsciousness, or a head injury without unconsciousness that produces symptoms that cause concern. Call 911 or go the emergency room if emergency signs develop.
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