Head injuries in adults

Serious symptoms needing urgent medical attention include:

• an increasingly severe headache
• unusual behaviour
• repeated vomiting (throwing up)
• being very sleepy or difficult to wake
• having a fit (jerking movements)
• slurred speech
• blurred or double vision
• strange feelings or a loss of movement down one side of your body.

Possible concussion symptoms include:

• recurring headaches
• tiredness (fatigue)
• difficulty with memory and concentration
• disrupted sleep and mood
• feeling lightheaded or dizzy
• feeling off balance like being on a rocking boat.

Rest is the most important part of recovery from a head injury. For the first 2 to 3 days, rest your brain. This should include avoiding screens, loud music and noisy environments as well as resting your body. Getting back to normal activities too soon can make your symptoms worse and delay your full recovery.

Simple pain relief like paracetamol can help with headaches.

Avoid alcohol and other drugs.

After 3 days, gradually return to your usual activities. If you are going to work or school, start with half days and build up to full days.

Avoid hard physical activity including contact sports for at least 3 weeks.

Before returning to sport, check if you have to follow a sport-specific stand down plan.

If you still have symptoms after 2 weeks, see your healthcare provider. You may need to see a specialist concussion service.