Get Started: What is a concussion? What can I expect? What should I do next? Tips for Concussion Symptoms

Tips for concussion symptoms

Every person and every concussion is very different. That makes a multi-disciplinary treatment team so important. Your team will figure out what’s causing your specific symptoms and what might help the best. If you’re waiting to get seen, try some of these strategies that help with common complaints after a concussion.

Fatigue

  • Expect everyday tasks may make you more tired and it may take you longer to recover your energy. Reduce or delegate as many responsibilities as you can.

  • View your day like a marathon and not a sprint. Take built-in breaks at regular times throughout the day.

Sensory sensitivity

  • Expect that crowded and noisy places might bother you. Avoid crowds if you can. Have a designated place to take a break if you are going to a busy place.

  • Reduce sensory input like light and sound if it bothers you. Wear sunglasses, hats, and earplugs as needed.

Attention

  • Expect that you may have difficulty concentrating if other people or noises are around. Close your office door, move conversations to a quiet place, cook and pay bills without distractions, etc.

  • Complete thinking tasks one at a time in a designated “quiet zone”.

Short-term memory

  • Expect that you may have difficulty remember what someone said, what happened during your day, or what you plan to do next. Write everything down in a designated “memory notebook.”

  • Set reminder alarms for appointments, bills, phone calls you want to make, upcoming birthdays, etc.

Brain fog

  • Expect that you may feel foggy. Simplify your day, give yourself plenty of time to complete tasks, and take regular breaks throughout the day.

  • Good rest, nutrition, and hydration are also important. Avoid caffeine and alcohol while you are symptomatic.

Sleep issues

  • Expect that you may experience poor sleep. Practice good sleep hygiene like avoiding stressful activities, heavy eating, and heavy exercise before bed. A sleep routine is also helpful.

  • Take rest breaks throughout the day, but don’t “over rest”. Complete light exercise throughout the day if it does not cause symptom problems.

Vision problems

  • Expect that you may be more sensitive to screen time. Try taking a break after 15 minutes.

  • Try dimming your computer screen.

This list is not exhaustive but it’s a good place to start. Your treatment team will come up with the best plan tailored to your specific symptoms. For additional help with thinking skills along the way, bookmark this site and browse the following pages:

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Disclaimer: This content is for informational purposes only and does not substitute personalized medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult your doctor or other qualified healthcare provider with questions, and before starting any nutrition, diet, exercise, fitness, medical, or wellness program.