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Concussion Care: What to Do After a Head Injury

Aptiva Health Editorial Team

2 min readLast reviewed June 11, 2026

A concussion is a mild traumatic brain injury that changes how the brain works for a time. Early evaluation and an active, guided recovery plan can speed healing.

Written by Aptiva Health Editorial TeamMedically reviewed by Thomas Huhn, MD and Robert Williams, MDEditorial & review standardsHow we research

What is a concussion?

A concussionA mild traumatic brain injury from a blow or jolt to the head. Symptoms can include headache, dizziness, and trouble concentrating; most people recover with proper rest and follow-up care. is a mild traumatic brain injury (TBI) caused by the brain moving inside the skull. It changes the way the brain works for a time, but usually does not show up on standard scans. You doA medical doctor — "MD" or "DO" — with four years of medical school plus a multi-year residency in a chosen field. not have to be hit on the head or lose consciousness to have one — a hard jolt to the body can be enough, and most concussions do not involve passing out.

Common symptoms

Headache, dizziness, nausea, sensitivity to light or noise, trouble concentrating, memory problems, mood changes, and sleep changes. Symptoms can appear hours or even days after the injury, so it helps for family members to watch for changes.

The modern approach to recovery

Older advice was “rest in a dark room.” Current evidence supports a more active, guided recovery:

  1. See a concussion providerAnyone licensed to give you medical care — a physician, nurse practitioner, or physician assistant. Clinics use "provider" as a catch-all for whoever is caring for you. early. Evaluation may include cognitive testing.
  2. Brief rest, then gradual return. A short rest period followed by a slow, structured return to school, work, and activity.
  3. Targeted therapy. Some people benefit from vestibular (balance) therapy, vision exercises, or support for mood and sleep.
  4. Safe return to sport. Returning before full recovery raises the risk of a second, more serious injury. A step-by-step return-to-play plan helps confirm the brain has healed.

When to seek care

See a concussion provider promptly after a suspected concussion. Seek emergency care or call 911 for worsening headache, repeated vomiting, seizures, slurred speech, one pupil larger than the other, increasing confusion, or trouble waking up — these can signal a serious brain injury.

Smart questions to ask

  • What type of concussion symptoms do I have, and what treatment fits?
  • When can I safely return to school, work, or sport?
  • What warning signs mean I should seek emergency care?
  • What are the costs of testing and follow-up?

Sources