You’ve just taken a hit — maybe during a game, in a car accident, or even from a fall. Your head’s rattled, you’re feeling off, and you’re wondering:
“Do I have a concussion?”
Concussions are mild traumatic brain injuries (mTBIs), but despite the word “mild,” they can seriously affect your cognitive, emotional, and physical health. The sooner you recognize the signs, the better your chances for a full recovery.
Here’s how to know if you might have a concussion — and what to do next.
Common Concussion Symptoms
Symptoms don’t always show up immediately. They may develop within minutes, hours, or even days after the impact.
Here are the most common signs:
- Headache or pressure in the head
- Dizziness or balance problems
- Nausea or vomiting
- Blurred or double vision
- Sensitivity to light or noise
- Difficulty concentrating or remembering
- Feeling foggy or slowed down
- Irritability, sadness, or anxiety
- Sleep disturbances (too much or too little)
You Don’t Need to Hit Your Head
Many people think a concussion requires a direct blow to the head. In fact, rapid acceleration or deceleration of the brain — such as whiplash or a hard body check — can cause a concussion even if the head isn’t directly hit.
When to Go to the Emergency Department
While most concussions resolve on their own with proper care, some symptoms require immediate medical attention:
- Loss of consciousness (even briefly)
- Seizures or convulsions
- Repeated vomiting
- Slurred speech
- Unusual behavior or severe confusion
- Worsening headache over time
- One pupil larger than the other
🔗 Read: When Should I Go to the Emergency Department for a Concussion?
What to Do Next
If you think you’ve had a concussion:
- Stop all physical and cognitive activity (including screens and work)
- Get assessed by a trained healthcare provider familiar with concussion
- Avoid alcohol, driving, and high-risk behavior
- Monitor your symptoms closely for the first 48 hours
🏥 Find a Certified Concussion Clinic
How to Track Your Symptoms
The Concussion Tracker App helps athletes, parents, and coaches:
- Record baseline and post-injury data
- Track symptom changes
- Communicate with certified clinics
- Access return-to-play or return-to-learn protocols
Final Thoughts
Not all concussions knock you out. In fact, most don’t. But every concussion should be taken seriously.
If you’re wondering whether you’ve had one, the safest path forward is to get assessed early and follow a guided recovery plan.
🏥 Book a Concussion Assessment Today
🎓 Learn How We Help Athletes Recover Faster