You’ve taken a hit—whether from a fall, a car accident, or a sports injury—and now you’re feeling the effects. Maybe it’s a pounding headache, dizziness, brain fog, or just feeling “off.” A concussion isn’t something to brush off. It’s a brain injury, and how you handle it in the first few days and weeks can make all the difference in your recovery.
But here’s the challenge: there’s a lot of conflicting advice out there. Should you rest in a dark room for days? Can you use screens? Is it safe to exercise? It’s easy to feel overwhelmed, but the right approach can mean the difference between a smooth recovery and lingering symptoms that won’t seem to go away.
At Moore MyoWorx, we specialize in concussion recovery and have helped countless people get their lives back. The key? Understanding what helps your brain heal—and what could be slowing you down. While every concussion is unique, there are clear dos and don’ts that can guide you through the healing process.
In this post, we’ll break down exactly what you should do (and avoid) after a concussion. From managing screen time and physical activity to knowing when to seek professional treatment, you’ll get a straightforward roadmap to recovery.
Your brain is your most valuable asset—don’t leave your recovery to chance. Let’s dive into the essential steps to ensure you heal properly and get back to feeling like yourself again.
What to Do Immediately After a Concussion
The first moments and hours after a concussion are critical. Whether you were injured in a fall, a car accident, or a sports collision, taking the right steps early on can set the foundation for a smooth recovery.
Recognizing Concussion Symptoms
Not all concussions look the same, and symptoms can appear immediately or develop over hours or even days. The most common signs include:
- Headache or pressure in the head
- Dizziness or balance issues
- Nausea or vomiting
- Blurred vision or sensitivity to light and noise
- Difficulty concentrating or remembering things
- Feeling dazed, sluggish, or unusually emotional
If you or someone you know experiences any of these symptoms after a head injury, assume it’s a concussion and take action.
Immediate Actions to Take
- Rest—but not total isolation: Your brain needs time to heal, so avoid intense physical or mental activity. However, complete sensory deprivation (like sitting in a dark room for days) isn’t necessary. Light, guided activity may help recovery.
- Monitor symptoms: Symptoms can worsen over time. If there’s persistent vomiting, confusion, worsening headaches, or loss of consciousness, seek medical attention immediately.
- Avoid stress: Stress can intensify symptoms and slow healing. Minimize mental strain, limit screen time, and engage in calming activities.
- Stay hydrated and eat well: Proper nutrition supports brain recovery. Avoid alcohol and caffeine, which can worsen symptoms.
- Avoid risky activities: Another hit before full recovery can be dangerous. Steer clear of contact sports, heavy lifting, and anything that risks another head injury.
The right response in these early hours can make all the difference. Listen to your body, prioritize rest, and if symptoms persist, seek professional concussion treatment to ensure a full recovery.
When You Need to See a Doctor
Not every concussion requires an immediate trip to the emergency room, but knowing when to seek medical attention is crucial. Some symptoms indicate a more serious brain injury that needs professional evaluation. If you’re unsure, it’s always better to play it safe.
Warning Signs That Require Immediate Medical Attention
While mild concussion symptoms can often be managed with rest and monitoring, certain red flags signal a more serious issue, such as a brain bleed or severe trauma. Seek emergency medical care if you experience:
- Loss of consciousness, even briefly
- Persistent or worsening headache
- Repeated vomiting
- Seizures or convulsions
- Slurred speech or difficulty speaking
- Weakness or numbness in limbs
- Significant confusion, agitation, or unusual behavior
- Difficulty waking up or extreme drowsiness
These symptoms could indicate a more severe brain injury that requires urgent treatment.
When to See a Concussion Specialist
Even if your symptoms don’t seem life-threatening, lingering issues can disrupt daily life. If you continue to experience headaches, dizziness, memory problems, or trouble concentrating beyond a few days, it’s time to see a specialist. Persistent symptoms may indicate post-concussion syndrome—a condition where symptoms last for weeks or even months.
At Moore MyoWorx, we take a targeted approach to concussion recovery, addressing not just the brain but also the nervous system and muscle imbalances that can contribute to lingering symptoms. If you’re struggling to bounce back, don’t wait—seeking the right treatment early can speed up recovery and prevent long-term issues.
Your brain is too important to ignore. If something feels off, trust your instincts and get the care you need.
What to Do Before Seeking Medical Help
If you suspect a concussion but don’t have immediate red-flag symptoms requiring emergency care, there are key steps you can take before seeing a doctor. These actions can help manage symptoms, prevent worsening conditions, and provide valuable information for medical professionals when you do seek care.
1. Prioritize Rest and Recovery
Your brain needs time to heal, so reduce both physical and mental strain. Avoid strenuous activities, limit screen time, and take breaks from work or school if needed. Sleep is essential—prioritize quality rest in a dark, quiet environment.
2. Monitor Symptoms Closely
Concussion symptoms can evolve over time. Keep track of headaches, dizziness, memory issues, nausea, or any changes in mood and alertness. If symptoms worsen—especially severe headache, vomiting, or confusion—seek emergency medical care immediately.
3. Stay Hydrated and Eat Brain-Boosting Foods
Dehydration can make symptoms like headaches and fatigue worse. Drink plenty of water and eat nutrient-rich foods that support brain function, such as leafy greens, berries, nuts, and lean proteins. Avoid caffeine and alcohol, as they can interfere with recovery.
4. Minimize Stress and Stimulation
Bright lights, loud noises, and intense mental effort can aggravate symptoms. Try to stay in a calm, quiet environment. Gentle activities like light stretching or deep breathing exercises can help manage stress without overloading the brain.
5. Avoid Medications That Could Mask Symptoms
Pain relievers like ibuprofen (Advil) or aspirin should be used with caution, as they can increase the risk of bleeding if there’s a more serious injury. If pain is significant, consult a healthcare provider before taking medication.
By taking these steps, you give your brain the best chance to begin healing while preparing for a productive medical evaluation if needed.
What to Do in the First 24 Hours After a Concussion
The first 24 hours after a concussion are critical for setting the stage for proper recovery. This period requires careful monitoring, intentional rest, and avoiding anything that could make symptoms worse.
1. Get Plenty of Rest
Your brain has been injured, and just like any other part of your body, it needs time to heal. Prioritize rest, but don’t isolate yourself completely. Light activities like listening to calming music or having quiet conversations are okay, as long as they don’t aggravate symptoms.
2. Monitor Symptoms Closely
Symptoms can change or worsen in the hours after a concussion. Keep track of any increases in headache intensity, nausea, dizziness, or confusion. If you notice severe symptoms like persistent vomiting, slurred speech, or difficulty staying awake, seek medical attention immediately.
3. Stay Hydrated and Eat Nutritious Foods
Drink plenty of water and eat brain-supporting foods like leafy greens, fatty fish, and berries. Avoid caffeine and processed foods that can contribute to inflammation and slow down healing.
4. Limit Screen Time and Bright Lights
Your brain is working hard to recover, and excessive screen use can strain it. Avoid scrolling on your phone, watching TV, or using a computer for extended periods, as this can trigger headaches and worsen symptoms.
5. Have Someone Check on You
It’s always a good idea to have a friend or family member keep an eye on you for the first 24 hours, especially while sleeping. Ask your doctor if someone should wake you periodically to check for any worsening symptoms.
Now that we’ve covered what you should do, let’s talk about what you shouldn’t do.
What Not to Do
Certain activities can slow your recovery or even make symptoms worse. Here’s what you need to avoid in the first 24 hours:
1. Avoid Alcohol and Smoking
Alcohol and nicotine can interfere with brain function and recovery. Alcohol can thin the blood, increasing the risk of internal bleeding, while smoking restricts oxygen flow to the brain, which is essential for healing.
2. Don’t Engage in Strenuous Physical Activity
Your brain and body need rest. High-impact exercise, heavy lifting, or even intense household chores can worsen symptoms and delay healing. Avoid anything that increases your heart rate significantly until you’ve been cleared by a doctor.
3. Steer Clear of Screens and Bright Lights
Looking at screens—whether it’s a phone, TV, or computer—can strain your eyes and increase headaches, dizziness, and brain fog. Similarly, bright lights can trigger sensitivity and discomfort. Give your brain a break by staying in a dim, quiet environment.
4. Don’t Rely on Painkillers Without Medical Advice
While it may be tempting to take pain relievers, some medications (like ibuprofen or aspirin) can increase the risk of bleeding in the brain. If you need pain relief, stick to acetaminophen (Tylenol) and consult a doctor first.
5. Avoid Driving or Operating Heavy Machinery
A concussion can slow your reaction time and impair decision-making, putting you and others at risk. Wait until you feel fully alert and symptom-free before getting behind the wheel or using heavy equipment.
By avoiding these common mistakes, you can prevent complications and give your brain the best chance at a full recovery. Remember, how you handle the first 24 hours can significantly impact the overall healing process.
What to Do in the First 48 Hours After a Concussion
The first 48 hours after a concussion are crucial for setting the stage for recovery. While complete bed rest isn’t necessary, pushing yourself too hard too soon can make symptoms worse and delay healing. Here’s how to navigate this critical period effectively.
Steps for Gradual Cognitive and Physical Recovery
Your brain is in a vulnerable state, so ease into normal activities. For the first 24-48 hours:
- Limit screen time—phones, computers, and TV can strain your brain.
- Take frequent breaks from reading or problem-solving tasks.
- Rest as needed, but avoid excessive sleep during the day to maintain a normal sleep cycle.
- Engage in light physical activity like short walks, but avoid strenuous exercise.
Restrictions for Driving, Sports, and Other Activities
Reaction time and focus are often impaired after a concussion, making activities like driving unsafe. Wait until you can think clearly and react quickly before getting behind the wheel. Avoid contact sports, heavy lifting, and any activity that risks another head injury—your brain is more susceptible to damage if it hasn’t fully healed.
Importance of Hydration and Proper Nutrition
Staying hydrated and eating nutrient-dense foods can help support brain function. Water, electrolyte-rich drinks, and anti-inflammatory foods like salmon, nuts, and leafy greens can promote recovery. Avoid alcohol and caffeine, as they can worsen dehydration and disrupt sleep.
Concussion Medication Options and Pain Management
Headaches and discomfort are common, but be cautious with medications. Acetaminophen (Tylenol) is generally safe, while NSAIDs like ibuprofen (Advil) and aspirin should be avoided in the first 24-48 hours due to the risk of increased bleeding. If pain persists, consult a healthcare provider before taking additional medications.
What Not to Do
Even if you start feeling better, there are certain things you should not do after a concussion. Ignoring these precautions can lead to prolonged symptoms or complications.
Why Multitasking or Overexerting Should Be Avoided
Your brain is healing, and overloading it with too much activity can make symptoms worse. Avoid:
- Trying to work, study, or engage in deep concentration for long periods.
- Doing intense physical activity—excessive movement can increase dizziness and headaches.
- Using multiple screens at once, like watching TV while scrolling on your phone.
Pushing through symptoms can set your recovery back and make you feel worse in the long run.
Risk of Ignoring Persistent Symptoms
A mild concussion can typically resolve within a couple of weeks, but if symptoms persist, ignoring them can lead to post-concussion syndrome—a condition where headaches, dizziness, and cognitive issues last for months.
Watch for signs that indicate you may need specialized concussion care, including:
- Symptoms lasting longer than two weeks.
- Difficulty concentrating or persistent brain fog.
- Chronic headaches or neck pain.
- Sensitivity to light, sound, or motion that doesn’t improve.
If you experience these issues, seeking professional concussion treatment—like the specialized approach at Moore MyoWorx—can help accelerate recovery and prevent long-term complications. The bottom line? Don’t ignore what your body is telling you. Prioritize rest, recovery, and professional care if needed.
What to Do in the First Month
Recovering from a concussion is a process that requires patience and balance. While you may start feeling better after a few days, returning to normal activities too quickly can cause setbacks. The first month is about gradual reintegration—pacing yourself while ensuring your brain heals properly.
Managing Recovery While Resuming Daily Activities
As symptoms improve, you can start easing back into daily responsibilities. However, be mindful of activities that trigger headaches, dizziness, or fatigue. If work or school tasks become overwhelming, take breaks, work in shorter intervals, and limit screen time as needed. Prioritize sleep, as rest is essential for brain recovery.
Balancing Work, School, and Home Responsibilities
A phased return is best. Consider lighter workloads, extended deadlines, or accommodations like reduced screen exposure and quiet environments. At home, delegate tasks where possible to reduce stress and energy demands.
Gradual Reintroduction of Sports and Exercise
Exercise is important for recovery, but high-impact activities should be avoided early on. Start with light walking or gentle stretching before progressing to more intense activities under medical guidance. Returning to contact sports before full recovery increases the risk of second-impact syndrome, which can be life-threatening.
Concussion Medication Options and Pain Management
Medication should be used cautiously. Acetaminophen (Tylenol) is preferred for pain relief, while ibuprofen (Advil) and aspirin should be avoided in the early stages due to bleeding risks. If symptoms persist, consult a specialist for personalized treatment options.
Beyond 4 Weeks – Follow-Ups
If symptoms persist past four weeks, regular check-ins with a healthcare provider are essential. They can adjust your recovery plan, recommend therapy, and ensure you’re on track for a full return to normal activities.
Symptom Resolution and Post-Concussion Syndrome
If symptoms last beyond twelve weeks, you may have post-concussion syndrome (PCS). Persistent headaches, dizziness, or cognitive issues require targeted therapy. At Moore MyoWorx, we specialize in treating the underlying causes of prolonged concussion symptoms for a full recovery.
What Not to Do
Healing from a concussion requires not just the right actions but also avoiding behaviors that can slow or even reverse recovery. Here are some critical mistakes to avoid:
Risks of Returning to High-Impact Activities Too Soon
One of the biggest dangers is rushing back into sports, workouts, or physically demanding jobs before your brain has fully healed. If you take another hit before recovering, you risk second-impact syndrome, a rare but severe condition that can cause permanent brain damage or even be fatal. Even minor jolts can prolong symptoms and delay recovery, so always get clearance from a medical professional before resuming high-impact activities.
Why Substances Like Alcohol and Drugs Delay Recovery
Alcohol and recreational drugs impair brain function, interfere with healing, and can worsen concussion symptoms. Alcohol, in particular, can increase dizziness, affect coordination, and disrupt sleep—critical factors for recovery. Prescription medications like sedatives and stimulants should only be taken under medical supervision, as they can mask symptoms rather than address the underlying injury.
Overexerting Yourself Mentally or Physically
While returning to normal life is important, pushing yourself too hard—whether through intense mental work, prolonged screen time, or strenuous exercise—can trigger symptoms and slow healing. Pay attention to your body’s signals and pace yourself accordingly.
Ignoring Lingering Symptoms
Some people try to “tough it out” when symptoms persist, assuming they’ll eventually fade. However, untreated post-concussion syndrome can lead to months or even years of lingering issues. If you still experience headaches, dizziness, or cognitive problems after a few weeks, don’t wait—seek professional treatment.
By avoiding these common pitfalls, you’ll give your brain the best chance to heal properly, ensuring a smoother and faster recovery.
When to Return to Normal Activities
Recovering from a concussion isn’t just about feeling better—it’s about making sure your brain is fully healed before jumping back into daily life. Returning too soon can set you back or even put you at risk for more serious injury. So how do you know when you’re ready?
Assessing Readiness for Work, School, and Sports
Your return to normal activities should be gradual. If you still experience headaches, dizziness, brain fog, or difficulty concentrating, your brain isn’t ready for full exertion. Start by easing back into light tasks and increase workload as tolerated.
- Work/School: Begin with short periods of mental work and take breaks as needed. If symptoms worsen, scale back and give yourself more recovery time.
- Sports/Exercise: Never return to high-impact activities until you’re symptom-free. A second concussion before healing can be dangerous, leading to prolonged symptoms or even serious complications.
Guidelines for Safe Driving and Operating Machinery
Concussions can impair reaction time, focus, and coordination—all critical for driving and operating machinery. Avoid both until:
- You are symptom-free at rest and during mild activity.
- Your reaction time and cognitive function feel fully restored.
- You can stay alert without headaches, dizziness, or fatigue.
If you’re unsure, get cleared by a healthcare professional before getting behind the wheel.
Ensuring Full Recovery Before Strenuous Activities
Even if you feel “okay,” your brain may still be healing. Before resuming strenuous activities like lifting heavy objects, intense exercise, or high-risk sports, make sure you’ve been symptom-free for at least several days without medication.
Pushing too hard, too soon can trigger setbacks. Patience now ensures a full, lasting recovery—so when you return, you’re truly ready.
Summary and Key Takeaways
A concussion is more than just a bump on the head—it’s a brain injury that requires the right care for a full recovery. The actions you take immediately after a concussion can significantly impact how quickly and effectively you heal. Let’s recap the key points:
- Recognizing Symptoms Early – Common signs include headaches, dizziness, nausea, brain fog, and sensitivity to light and sound. Symptoms can appear immediately or develop over time, so staying aware is crucial.
- Immediate Actions Matter – Rest, monitor symptoms, avoid stress, stay hydrated, and steer clear of activities that could lead to another head injury. Proper recovery starts with protecting your brain.
- Know When to Seek Medical Help – If symptoms worsen—such as persistent headaches, vomiting, confusion, or loss of consciousness—seek emergency care. Even without severe symptoms, lingering issues like dizziness or concentration problems may require specialized concussion treatment.
- Before Seeing a Doctor – Prioritize rest, track symptoms, avoid overstimulation, and be mindful of medications that might mask pain. These steps will help manage discomfort and provide valuable information for your healthcare provider.
Conclusion
Recovering from a concussion takes time, but the right approach can make all the difference. Ignoring symptoms or pushing through discomfort can lead to long-term complications, while proactive care sets the stage for a full recovery. At Moore MyoWorx, we specialize in concussion treatment that goes beyond symptom management, targeting the root causes of lingering issues.
If you or a loved one has suffered a concussion, don’t leave recovery to chance. Take the right steps, listen to your body, and seek professional care when needed. Your brain health is too important to ignore—invest in a proper recovery and get back to living your life to the fullest.
