Embedded Files
The Signs and Symptoms of Concussion
The Signs and Symptoms of Concussion
There are a number of symptoms that someone with a concussion might show. You will notice that the physical symptoms are symptoms that are fairly easy to identify as being caused by a recent injury. The Cognitive, Emotional, and Sleep-Related symptoms may be a little more difficult to observe or recognize.
Physical
Nausea or vomiting
Blurred vision
Sensitive to light or sound
Headache
Pressure in the head
Dizziness
Ringing sound in the ears
Balance problems
Feeling tired or low energy
Drowsy
“Don’t feel right”
Cognitive
Problems concentrating
Memory problems
Not thinking clearly
Feel slowed down
Feel like you're “in a fog”
Emotional
Feeling more emotional than usual
Easily upset/angered
Sadness
Nervous or anxious
Sleep-related
Sleeping more or less than usual
Having a hard time falling asleep
What to do if There Might be a Concussion
In all suspected cases of concussion, the possibly concussed person should stop the activity right away. Continuing increases the risk of having more severe concussion symptoms. It also increases your chances of getting a second concussion and/or getting injured in a different way.
The concussed person should see a doctor so that they can engage a Return to School/Activity protocol/plan as soon as possible. Ensuring proper rest, treatment, and monitoring is very important in cases of concussion. How the concussion is treated in the first 24-48 hours can have an impact on the severity of symptoms and on how long the symptoms persist.
Below are some common symptoms and the appropriate reaction to each.
An icon‑based graphic visually summarizing physical, cognitive, and emotional concussion symptoms.
MINDS ON
MINDS ON
💡 Reflection
💡 Reflection
Things to consider:
What are the 4 categories of concussion symptoms?
In your workbook, write down all the concussion signs and symptoms that require stopping the activity.
Can a concussion become more severe if not treated properly in the first 24-48 hours?
Record your answer in your Student Workbook.
Page updated
Report abuse