Concussion symptomsinclude confusion, drowsiness, nausea, and headache.
These might start immediately following an injury, but some symptoms may take days or weeks to appear.
Illustration by Zoe Hansen for Verywell Health
How Long Should You Watch for Signs of a Concussion?
Illustration by Zoe Hansen for Verywell Health
There might not be symptoms right away.
Recovery happens in stages.
This usually lasts less than three days.
Once symptoms are improving, you’re in the recovery stage.
You feel like your usual self, although symptoms worsen when you overdo it.
Recovery is different for everyone.
Total recovery time is typically 30 days for those under 18 and 14 days for adults over 18.
You’re fully recovered once you’re free of symptoms and can return to normal activities without issue.
Consult with a healthcare provider if you have any questions, as the recovery timeline is unique to individuals.
Cognitive Symptoms
A concussion can affect the way you think and make decisions.
Some research suggests poor sleep quality is associated with symptoms lasting six months to four years after the injury.
This includes impaired executive function, working memory, information processing, and emotional symptoms.
Some symptoms may take several months or more than a year to resolve.
Symptoms fail to go away entirely for a few individuals but show improvements and stabilization over time.
Common Signs in Babies
Infants may have many of the same symptoms as older children.
The second impact causes acute and potentially fatal brain swelling.
Goodsleepis an important part of recovery.
Exercising, using electronic devices, or studying can make symptoms worse.
It’s important to limit physical activity and anything that requires intense concentration.
Return to normal activities slowly or as advised by a healthcare provider.
Always contact a healthcare provider if you have a head injury.
This can cause cognitive, physical, and emotional symptoms.
It’s hard to tell the difference between a mild concussion and a serious brain injury.
That’s why it’s best to contact a healthcare provider for guidance.
Seek emergency treatment for signs such as inability to stay awake, repeated vomiting, or slurred speech.
With proper care, most people can recover within a few weeks.
University of Michigan Health.Concussion treatment and recovery.
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.Symptoms of mild TBI and concussion.
2021;5. doi:10.1177/20597002211020881
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.Signs and symptoms of concussion.
Mass General Brigham.Signs of concussion in a child.
American Association of Neurological Surgeons.Concussion.
