Symptoms of concussion can range from being hard-to-see to quite obvious. The general signs of concussion include:
- Dizziness
- Headaches
- Blurred Vision
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Slurred Speech
- Appearing Dazed, Confused
- Ringing in the Ears
- Delayed Response to Questions
- Loss on Consciousness
Following a concussion, one may feel or demonstrate a variety of cognitive, physical, emotional, and/or sleep issues.
Cognitive
- In a “fog”; can’t think clearly
- Can’t follow conversations
- Trouble with attention/concentration
- Difficulty learning new information
- Word finding problems
- Slowed reaction times
Physical
- Headache
- Post-traumatic amnesia
(can’t recall injury) - Nausea
- Dizziness
- Sensitivity to light/sound
- Fatigue
Emotional
- Sad
- Easily irritated
- Anxious
- More emotional than usual
- Changes in personality
- More impulsive
Sleep
- Sleeping more
- Trouble falling asleep
- Not sleeping soundly
- Sleep cycle disturbed
- Not feeling rested after sleep
When to Seek Medical Attention
Health care professionals recommend individuals contact their physician, emergency medical services (EMS), or go to the nearest emergency department immediately if someone sustains a bump, blow, or jolt to the head and has these symptoms:
- A headache that gets worse and does not go away;
- Weakness, numbness, or decreased coordination;
- Repeated vomiting or nausea;
- Slurred speech;
- Drowsiness or cannot be awakened;
- One pupil is larger than the other;
- Convulsions or seizures;
- Does not recognize people or places;
- Get increasingly confused, restless, or agitated;
- Unusual behavior; and/or
- Loss of consciousness.
Symptoms may vary, and each individual may experience them somewhat differently. A concussion can impact physical well-being, thinking (cognitive) skills, behaviors and emotions, and even sleep patterns..