Treatment:

An initial neurological evaluation by a health care worker determines appropriate treatment for an uncomplicated concussion.

If a blow to the head during athletics leads to a bad headache, a feeling of being confused (dazed), or unconsciousness, a trained person must determine when the person can return to playing sports.

If a child or young adult has lost consciousness, that person should not play sports for a period of 3 months. There is an increased rate of brain injury and occasionally death in persons who have had a previous concussion that resulted in unconsciousness.

Concussion complicated by bleeding or brain damage must be treated in a hospital.

Expectations (prognosis):

Full recovery is expected from an uncomplicated concussion, although prolonged dizziness, memory loss, decreased mental functioning, irritability, headaches, and other symptoms may occur.

Complications:

• Bleeding in the brain (intracerebral hemorrhage)
• Brain injury that results in physical, emotional, or intellectual changes or deficits

Calling your health care provider:

Call your health care provider if anyone has a head injury that produces unconsciousness, or a head injury without unconsciousness that produces symptoms that cause concern.

Call 911 or go the emergency room if emergency signs develop.