Discharge Instructions for Concussion

You have been diagnosed with a concussion. This is a type of brain injury caused by a sudden impact to your head. It can also be caused by sudden movement of your brain inside your head, such as from forceful shaking. Some concussions are mild. But even mild concussions are serious and must be managed with care and appropriate medical follow-up. Most people recover completely from mild concussions. But recovery may take days, weeks, or months. For some, symptoms may last even longer. Early care and monitoring are important to prevent long-term complications.

Home care

Do's and don'ts: 

• Ask a friend or family member to stay with you for a few days. You shouldn't be alone until you know how the injury has affected you.

• Get plenty of sleep. It is usually not necessary to have someone wake you up from sleep after a minor head injury. However, if your healthcare provider does recommend that you have someone wake you up every 2 to 3 hours, you should be able to know where you are when awakened.

• Ask your provider about safe over-the-counter medicines, such as ibuprofen and acetaminophen, to help with your symptoms.

• Don't drink alcohol or use any recreational drugs. 

• Don't return to sports or any activity that could cause you to hit your head until all symptoms are gone and your provider says it's OK. A second head injury before full recovery from the first one can lead to serious brain injury.

• Don't do activities that need a lot of concentration or attention. This will allow your brain to rest and heal more quickly. Ask your provider for a letter if you need temporary accommodations at work.

• You may need to take a short time off from work or school, although usually no more than 2 to 3 days. Ask your provider when you can return to work or school. This depends on your symptoms and the type of work you do or school level.

The best way to recover is to discuss symptoms with your provider and your family. Work closely with your provider and give your brain time to heal.

Follow-up care

Follow up with your healthcare provider or as advised. Most concussion symptoms show up right after the injury, but some may not appear for hours or days. Don't hesitate to contact your provider if new symptoms develop or if you have follow-up questions.

Call 911

Your caregiver should call 911 if you have any of these symptoms:

• Fall asleep and can't be woken up

• Confusion or disoriented

• Have a sudden and persistent change in your behavior

• Difficulty walking normally

• Slurred speech

• Can't move an arm, leg, or one side of your face

• Seizure, abnormal movements, or jerking you cannot control

When to call your healthcare provider

Call your healthcare provider right away if you have any of these symptoms:

• Vomits twice or continues to vomit 4 to 6 hours after the injury

• Weakness or numbness involving any part of the body

• Can't stop crying or looks sicker

• Clear or bloody drainage from your nose or ear

• Constant drowsiness or trouble waking up

• Memory loss

• Blurred vision

• Trouble concentrating

• Increased weakness or problems with coordination

• Constant headache that can’t be relieved or gets worse

• Changes in behavior or personality

• Stiff neck