A concussion is a type of traumatic brain injury that can cause a range of symptoms. The signs and symptoms of a concussion can be subtle and may not show up immediately. Symptoms can last for days, weeks, or even longer. Here are some common symptoms of a concussion:
- Headache
- Loss of memory (amnesia)
- Confusion
- Dizziness or "seeing stars"
- Nausea or vomiting
- Fatigue or drowsiness
- Blurry vision
- Balance problems or dizziness
- Double or blurry vision
- Bothered by light or noise
- Feeling sluggish, hazy, foggy, or groggy
- Confusion, or concentration or memory problems
- Just not “feeling right,” or “feeling down”
- Mood, behavior, or personality changes
Symptoms may be difficult to sort out as they are similar to other health problems. After a mild TBI or concussion, a person may not recognize or admit that they are having problems, may not understand how the symptoms they are experiencing affect their daily activities, and problems may be overlooked by the person with the mild TBI or concussion, family members, or healthcare providers. Seek immediate emergency medical care if you have danger signs such as a headache that gets worse and does not go away, weakness, numbness, decreased coordination, repeated vomiting or nausea, slurred speech, convulsions or seizures, cannot recognize people or places, get confused, restless, or agitated, lose consciousness, look very drowsy or cannot wake up, or any other sudden change in thinking or behavior.
