5 Concussion Symptoms: What to Look Out For

Did you know that a concussion is a mild traumatic brain injury (TBI)? It can happen after a bump, blow, or jolt to the head—or even to the body—that causes the brain to move rapidly inside the skull. This sudden motion can result in bruising, swelling, or damage to brain cells, blood vessels, and nerves.

Common causes of concussions include:

• Sports injuries

• Car accidents

• Falls

• Bicycle or scooter accidents

• Workplace injuries

Often, people don't even realize when they have a concussion. They don't get treated because they don't know when to see a doctor after getting injured. If you don't get help for a concussion, it can cause problems that stick around. Studies say that even one concussion can make your chances of getting dementia go up by 72%. (1)

Spotting the 5 Concussion Symptoms

There are several signs and symptoms of a concussion that you can experience following an accident. Sometimes, these signs might not show up until days or weeks after you get hurt. It’s important to be on the lookout for the symptoms below. If you notice any of these things, take charge and make an appointment!

Here are five common concussion symptoms you shouldn’t ignore:

1. Headache or Pressure in the Head

A persistent headache is the most commonly reported symptom of a concussion. It may feel dull, throbbing, or like intense pressure inside the skull. If your headache worsens over time, it’s important to seek medical attention quickly.

2. Dizziness or Balance Issues

Feeling lightheaded, dizzy, or off-balance can indicate that your brain's normal communication pathways are disrupted. Some people also experience blurred or double vision, making it difficult to move around safely or focus their eyes.

3. Confusion or Brain Fog

If you feel mentally cloudy, disoriented, or just “off,” it could be a sign your brain is having trouble processing information. This symptom is often referred to as “brain fog” and may make it hard to concentrate or think clearly.

4. Memory Loss

Forgetfulness or gaps in memory, especially surrounding the time of the injury, is a red flag. You may not remember what happened before, during, or after the incident. This type of memory loss is a key indicator of a concussion.

5. Fatigue or Sleepiness

Feeling unusually tired, sluggish, or needing more sleep than usual is common after a concussion. Some people may also struggle to stay awake, or feel like they’re moving in slow motion.

Some symptoms are a sign of a more serious brain injury, and you need to see a doctor right away if you have them. If you’re throwing up repeatedly, your headache is getting progressively worse, you feel weak, super confused, talk funny, can't coordinate well or walk right, have seizures, or pass out, get medical help right away!

Watch for Delayed Concussion Symptoms

Sometimes concussion symptoms show up right away. Other times, they take hours or even days to appear. If you’re still experiencing symptoms after 7–10 days—or they’re getting worse—it’s time to see a concussion specialist.

Delayed concussion symptoms can include:

• Sensitivity to light or noise

• Trouble concentrating

• Mood swings or irritability

• Trouble sleeping

• Persistent fatigue

• Headaches

• Feeling dizzy

• Not liking bright light or loud noise

• Having a hard time paying attention

• Getting easily irritated or having mood changes

So you’ve had a concussion, now what? Check out our blog on how to deal with your concussion. 

Please note that the thoughts and ideas presented in this article reflect the author's viewpoint, unless stated otherwise. This content should not be considered as individual medical guidance. The details shared are designed to assist readers in making well-informed choices regarding their own health and well-being.

Resources

1:  Morissette MP, Prior HJ, Tate RB, et al. Associations between concussion and risk of diagnosis of psychological and neurological disorders: a retrospective population-based cohort study. Fam Med Com Health. Published online July 27, 2020. doi:10.1136/fmch-2020-000390