The first hours and days after a concussion are crucial for your recovery.
Here’s a simple guide on what you should do — and what you should avoid — during the first 24-48 hours.

Seek Medical Advice — and Again if Symptoms Worsen

Always contact a doctor, emergency clinic, or on-call medical service if you suspect a concussion.
Seek help again if symptoms worsen, especially if you experience:

• Severe or worsening headache
• Double vision
• Weakness or tingling in arms or legs
• Seizures or loss of consciousness
• Persistent vomiting
• Confusion or unusual drowsiness
• Agitation or irritability

Pause Work and School Activities

Avoid work or school tasks for the first 24-48 hours.
Only return gradually — when you can handle everyday activities without worsening your symptoms.

Avoid Sports and Intense Physical Activity

Keep your heart rate close to resting level.
Avoid:

• Exercise or sports
• Heavy cleaning (like vacuuming)
• Lifting heavy objects

Get sleep

It’s safe to sleep after a concussion, make sure to get a good first nights sleep to let your brain heal.

Avoid Alcohol

Alcohol can make symptoms worse and delay recovery.
Wait until a doctor confirms it's safe.

6 Extra Tips for the First 48 Hours

1. Avoid Stress and Conflicts

Slow down. Avoid busy places and intense conversations.
Give your brain quiet time to recover.

2. Limit Social Activities

Keep conversations short.
It’s okay to talk briefly with someone close — just take breaks when needed.

3. Limit Screen Time

Phones, TVs and computers can sometimes worsen symptoms.
Reduce screen use if it triggers discomfort.

4. Balance Rest and Gentle Activity

Don’t stay in bed all day.
Mix rest with light activity like showering, folding laundry or listening to music.
Pause before, during and after activity if needed.

5. Eat and Stay Hydrated

Regular food and fluids support brain recovery.
Keep your energy steady.

When to Seek Immediate Medical Attention

Contact emergency services right away if you experience:

• Fainting or “blackouts”
• Severe or worsening headache
• Frequent vomiting
• Confusion or memory loss
• Slurred speech or odd behavior
• Seizures or paralysis
• Vision problems
• Blood or clear fluid from ears or nose

Reminder

Even if it’s been more than 48 hours, it’s never too late to start recovery.
Heads is here to support you — one step at a time.


References:
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)
“Concussion at Play: Opportunities to Reshape the Culture Around Concussion”
https://www.cdc.gov/headsup

‍

‍

‍