Symptoms and Recovery of mTBI and Concussion
Concussion is the most common type of brain injury. The initial signs and symptoms of concussion can include:
- Headache
- Dizziness
- Nausea and/or vomiting
- Slurred speech
- Feeling dazed, disoriented, or confused
- Loss of memory of events surrounding the injury
- Brief loss of consciousness (though most people do not experience unconsciousness)
If you believe you or your loved one has may have a concussion, seek medical help right away by setting up an examination with a doctor or by visiting your nearest urgent care clinic or emergency department.
Most people recover fully within a few weeks after a concussion, although for some, symptoms may last longer. People with certain risk factors, such as experiencing multiple concussions, are more likely to experience longer lasting symptoms. Symptoms are a normal part of recovery, and it is common to have some symptoms during the healing process. Symptoms people commonly experience while recovering include:
- Headache or neck pain
- Dizziness or balance problems
- Sensitivity to light or sounds
- Visual difficulties
- Foggy or slow thinking
- Difficulty finding words or organizing thoughts
- Difficulty staying focused
- Trouble remembering things
- Sadness
- Anger or Irritability
- Frustration
- Anxiety
- Fatigue
- Difficulty falling and staying asleep
- Sleeping more or less than usual
