If you think you might have a concussion, here's what you should do to get better faster. Sometimes you might not even notice the symptoms until you try doing normal things. It's important to get checked early and have an individualized plan to help you recover from a concussion.
Things to Do:
Rest: After a concussion, your brain doesn't have as much energy. For the first 24-72 hours, avoid rigorous activities (both physical and mental).
Sleep: If there are no red flags, try to get a good night’s sleep. You can take short naps too.
Eat Well: Having good food gives you energy and helps you heal.
Follow Plans: There are protocols to follow for getting back to school, work, and regular activities. Your healthcare provider can tell you what to do.
Things to Avoid:
Sports: Don't play sports until you're completely better and your healthcare provider says it's okay. Playing too soon can be dangerous and put you at risk for a more serious injury.
Work and School: Take a break from work and school at first.
Driving: Wait at least 24 hours before driving again. If it makes your symptoms worse, find a friend or family member who can drive you.
Alcohol and Drugs: These can hide your symptoms, slow down your healing and make you feel worse.
Getting Better and Healing:
Whenever you’ve had a concussion, even if it feels minor, you should see a doctor. Even if you don't feel really bad right after, it's important to be assessed. A doctor will do tests to make sure everything's okay. Within a week of getting hurt, go see a certified concussion provider to make sure you can go back to school, work, and sports without any problems.
Most people feel better (their symptoms go away) in about 10 to 14 days, and make a full recovery in about 4 weeks. However, kids, those with a history of concussions, or those with mental health issues may take longer to recover.
Don't go back to sports or hard exercise until your symptoms are totally gone and your healthcare provider gives you the green light. Going back too soon puts you at risk of sustaining another concussion. If you get another concussion before the first one is healed, it can be life-threatening.
Call Sparq Physical Therapy After a Bad Accident
If you've been in an accident, reach out to us. Dr. Kelsy Rayl has experience treating concussions, whiplash, and soft tissue injuries.
At SparqPT, you'll get one-on-one attention from our specialized providers. Our ways of helping you are fun and effective. You'll get a plan made just for you to help you get better faster. We can help you feel better, balance better, and get back to your regular life!
Please note that the thoughts and ideas presented in this article reflect the author's viewpoint, unless stated otherwise. This content should not be considered as individual medical guidance. The details shared are designed to assist readers in making well-informed choices regarding their own health and well-being.
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