What Is a Concussion?
Even a mild bump to the head can cause a concussion—a type of mild brain injury caused by the brain being shaken inside the skull. Recognising the signs early and managing it properly is key to a full recovery.
Common Causes of Concussion:
Even a mild bump to the head can cause a concussion—a type of mild brain injury caused by the brain being shaken inside the skull. Recognising the signs early and managing it properly is key to a full recovery.
Common Causes of Concussion:
- Falls (especially in children and older adults)
- Sporting collisions (football, netball, rugby, cycling, etc.)
- Motor vehicle accidents
- Workplace or household accidents
How to Spot a Concussion
Concussion symptoms may show up immediately, but sometimes they’re delayed by hours or even days. It’s important to monitor the person closely in the hours after the incident.
Key signs to watch for include:
- Headache or pressure in the head
- Dizziness or balance problems
- Nausea or vomiting
- Blurred vision or sensitivity to light and noise
- Confusion, slowed responses, or memory issues
- Fatigue or drowsiness
- Changes in mood, behaviour, or personality
- Difficulty concentrating
In children, you might also notice they’re unusually irritable, cry more than usual, or lose interest in their toys or activities.
When to Seek Immediate Medical Attention
Call 000 or go to emergency if the person:
- Is unconscious, even briefly
- Has a seizure or convulsion
- Has one pupil larger than the other
- Is vomiting repeatedly
- Can’t wake up or appears very drowsy
- Has slurred speech or worsening confusion
What to Do in the First 24–48 Hours…
If symptoms are mild and don’t require emergency care:
- Rest the brain and body: Avoid screens, reading, bright lights, and strenuous activity. Quiet rest is best.
- Limit stimulation: Keep the environment calm and quiet. Avoid noisy places and multitasking.
- Stay hydrated and eat normally.
- Monitor symptoms closely: If symptoms worsen, seek medical help immediately.
- Avoid alcohol, painkillers (like aspirin), and driving
When Can a Physio Help?
Once symptoms begin to settle, a physiotherapist can assist with:
- Balance and coordination retraining
- Gradual return-to-play or return-to-work plans
- Neck and posture treatment (many concussions also involve cervical spine strain)
- Managing dizziness or visual symptoms
At Back to Health Physio, we work with GPs and specialists to provide a safe, step-by-step recovery plan after a concussion.
If you or someone you know has had a head knock, don’t brush it off. Early recognition and the right care can prevent complications and get you back to normal life safely.
Contact us at [email protected] or call 9997 4970 to book an appointment with us today.