Concussion First Aid: Concussion Symptoms, Treatment & Recovery Tips

Discover how to provide concussion first aid, identify symptoms early, and follow key treatment and recovery tips for a safe outcome.

 

Introduction

A concussion is one of the most common types of head injuries, but it is widely misunderstood by the general public. A concussion can happen in everyday situations, from a fall at home or a collision on the sports field. While many concussions are mild, some can be serious, and knowing how to respond quickly and safely can make all the difference. 

In this blog, we'll break down everything you need to know about concussion first aid, including how to recognise the symptoms, what to do immediately after a head injury, and how to support recovery. Whether you're a coach, a parent, or simply want to be prepared in the case of a head injury, understanding the basics of concussion is an essential part of first aid knowledge. 

 

What Is Concussion?

A concussion is a type of mild traumatic brain injury that occurs when a sudden blow to the head causes the brain to move rapidly within the skull. This can temporarily distrupt the brain's normal function and can lead to a variety of physical, cognitive and emotional symptoms. The most common misconception with concussions is that you need to lose consciousness for one to develop, but that is not the case. Even a minor bump or fall can be enough to cause a concussion, so it's important to take every head injury seriously. 

When the brain moves suddenly, in the case of a crash or fall, it can stretch or damage nerve cells and alter the way the brain processes information. This is why people often feel dizzy, disorientated or confused after a head injury. The symptoms of concussion might appear immediately, but it is also possible for them to develop over several hours or even days. Concussions can happen in many settings, from sports and physical activity, to workplace incidents, car crashes, or everyday falls at home. Children and teenagers are particularly at risk due to their developing brains, but adults and elderly people can also be affected.

While most concussions are not life-threatening, they still require proper care from a professional and monitoring in the days afterwards. Understanding how to recognise and respond with the correct concussion first aid is essential for preventing complications and supporting recovery.

 

Concussion Symptoms

Recognising the signs of a concussion early is key to giving the right first aid treatment and ensuring a swift recovery. Concussion symptoms can vary from person to person and might not appear right away, some show up within minutes, others may take a few hours or even days to develop. 

Common Immediate Symptoms:

• Headache or a feeling of pressure in the head
• Dizziness or loss of balance
• Confusion or appearing dazed
• Nausea or vomiting
• Blurred or double vision
• Ringing in the ears
• Slurred speech or delayed responses
• Loss of consciousness (even briefly)

Delayed or Ongoing Symptoms:

• Difficulty concentrating or remembering things
• Fatigue or drowsiness
• Sensitivity to light or noise
• Mood changes such as irritability or anxiety
• Sleep problems (sleeping more or less than usual)

It's important to note that symptoms can look different in children. They might appear unusually quiet, tired, or cranky, or show changes in eating and sleeping habits. They may not always be able to describe how they feel, so keeping a close eye on their behaviour after a bump to the head is crucial. If any of these symptoms appear or worsen over time, it’s important to treat it as a potential concussion and follow proper concussion first aid steps right away.

 

Concussion First Aid: What To Do

If you suspect someone has a concussion, even if the injury seems minor, providing the right concussion first aid can help prevent complications and ensure the person receives the care they need.

Step-By-Step:

• Stop activity immediately - If the person is playing sport or being physically active, stop them and those around them straight away. Continuing after a head injury increases the risk of serious damage.
• Check for danger signs – Look for signs such as loss of consciousness, vomiting, seizures, or confusion. If any are present, call emergency services immediately.
• Keep the person still and calm – Encourage them to sit or lie down. Avoid sudden movements or letting them walk unassisted.
• Monitor breathing and responsiveness – Make sure they are alert, breathing normally, and can answer simple questions.
• Do not give food, drink, or painkillers – Avoid giving anything by mouth until they have been fully assessed by a medical professional.
• Call for medical help if needed – Even if symptoms seem mild, it’s safest for anyone with a suspected concussion to be checked by a doctor.
• Never let them return to activity straight away – Rest is crucial. They should only return to work, school, or sport when cleared by a healthcare professional.

What Not to Do:

• Don't try to test their memory or coordination by asking them to walk straight or focus on small details. Leave this kind of testing to a medical professional.
• Don't assume that 'feeling fine' means that they are fine. As we've said, concussion symptoms can take time to appear, and may not be obvious at first.
• Don't leave them alone for at least 24 hours after their injury, in case symptoms show up or their condition deteriorates.

 

When To Seek Medical Help

Even though many concussions are mild, it’s always safest to have a medical professional assess anyone who’s suffered a head injury - some symptoms may appear harmless at first but can indicate a more serious brain injury developing over time.

Call 999 or go to A&E if the following symptoms show:

• Loss of consciousness, even for a few seconds
• Repeated vomiting or nausea
• Severe or worsening headache
• Seizures or convulsions
• Slurred speech or difficulty understanding others
• Weakness, numbness, or lack of coordination
• Unequal pupils in the eyes or changes in vision
• Increasing confusion, agitation or unusual behaviour
• Bleeding or clear fluid coming from the ears or nose

For milder cases, it's still recommended to book a check up with your GP, even if the symptoms seem to improve quickly. A doctor can rule out more serious injuries, offer advice for recovery, and determine when it's safe to return to work, school, or sports, and when you'll be able to drive again if necessary. If symptoms get worse in the hours or days after the injury, seek medical attention straight away. This could signal that there is a more severe issue that requires urgent treatment. 

 

Concussion Treatment and Recovery

Once a concussion has been diagnosed, the main focus should be on rest and gradual recovery. The brain needs time to heal, and pushing yourself too soon can delay recovery or make symptoms worse.

Rest and recovery

• Physical rest - Avoid sports, exercise, or any activity that could cause another bump or jolt to the head. Even light activity like walking should be reintroduced slowly, and only after symptoms have fully gone.
• Mental rest - Limit screen time, reading, and other mentally demanding tasks. Taking a break from work, school, or study may be necessary. 
• Sleep and hydration - Get plenty of sleep and drink enough water. Rest is one of the most effective ways to help the brain recover.

Gradual return to normal activities

When symptoms begin to improve, return to regular routines slowly. This might include light walking, short periods of concentration and social activity, but always stop if the symptoms return. For athletes, follow a return-to-play plan approved by a doctor or a qualified sports professional.

Follow up care

If symptoms last longer than two weeks, or if new symptoms develop, it's best to book another appointment with the doctor. Some people may experience post-concussion syndrome, where symptoms such as headaches or concentration problems continue. Physiotherapy, cognitive therapy, or speicalist support may help in these cases. 

Support and patience

Recovery times vary - some people recover within days, while others may still feel some effects months after. The most important thing to remember is to try and be patient. When suffering from concussion, you need to remember that your brain has taken a massive hit and it needs time to return to normal. Proper care after a concussion is the best way to ensure a full and safe recovery, so listen to your body, and try to avoid rushing back into everyday activities. 

 

Preventing Concussions

While not every concussion can be avoided, there are plenty of steps you can take to reduce the risk of head injuries in daily life, sports, and the workplace. Prevention starts with awareness and simple safety habits.

Sports and physical activities:

• Always wear appropriate protective gear for the sport, such as helmets or headguards, and ensure that they fit properly.
• Follow the rules of the game and promote safe play - no reckless challenges or unnecessary roughness.
• Encourage a culture where players feel comfortable reporting head injuries instead of 'playing through them'.
• Ensure coaches and trainers are first aid trained, and know the signs of concussion, and when to stop play. 

At home and in everyday life:

• Keep floors and pathways clear to prevent trips and falls.
• Use handrails on stairs.
• Use non-slip mats in bathrooms.
• Ensure good lighting throughout the home, especially for children or older adults.

At work:

• Use proper safety equipment in environments where falls or head injuries are possible.
• Make sure staff are first aid trained, and know how to respond if someone suffers a head injury.

Simple precautions like these can significantly lower the chance of concussion — and knowing concussion first aid means you’re prepared if an accident does happen.

 

Conclusion

Concussions may be common, but with the right knowledge and quick action, their effects can be managed safely. Understanding concussion first aid — from recognising symptoms to knowing when to seek medical help — ensures you can respond calmly and effectively if someone experiences a head injury.

Remember: rest and recovery are key. Never ignore or downplay a concussion, no matter how minor it seems. By taking the right precautions, following medical advice, and allowing enough time to heal, most people make a full recovery without lasting effects.

If you want to build your confidence in handling head injuries and other emergencies, consider taking a certified first aid training course. The more you know, the better prepared you’ll be to protect yourself and others when it matters most.