Getting the right concussion care at the right time Are you or someone you know suffering from a concussion?
It's important for everyone to be aware of the signs and symptoms of concussion, so you or your loved one can get the appropriate care they need, when they need it. Learn what signs and symptoms you should look for, know when to seek medical attention and how to care for your concussion following a head injury.
Concussion Hotline: 703-970-6427Seek immediate medical care if you experience or observe any of the following:
- Persistent or worsening headache
- Very drowsy, or cannot be awakened
- Increasing confusion or irritability
- Seizures/loss of consciousness (LOC)
- Repeated vomiting
- Not recognizing familiar people/places
- Neck pain
- Strange or unusual behavior changes
- Slurred speech
- Weakness/numbness in extremities
- Significant irritability
- Less responsive than usual
If you need immediate medical attention, call 911.
Concussion Hotline
Concerned about concussion and need help identifying symptoms or scheduling a concussion appointment? Contact our Concussion Hotline:
Physical
- Headache
- Nausea/Vomiting
- Fatigue
- Dizziness
- Balance Problems
- Visual Problems
- Sensitivity to Light
- Sensitivity to Noise
- Numbness/Tingling
Cognitive
- Feeling “foggy”
- Feeling slowed down
- Difficulty Remembering
- Difficulty Concentrating
Emotional
- Irritability
- Anxious
- Feeling More Emotional
- Sadness
- Nervousness
- Rumination
Sleep
- Sleeping more
- Sleeping less
- Drowsiness
- Trouble Falling Asleep
Concussion Hotline
Concerned about concussion and need help identifying symptoms or scheduling a concussion appointment? Contact our Concussion Hotline:
- Diet: Eating breakfast, lunch and dinner each day is important, even if three meals are not typically eaten
- Hydration: It is important to stay well hydrated.
- Sleep: Stick to a strict sleep schedule, with a regular bedtime and wake-up time. We recommend obtaining 7-9 hours each night, with limited naps of no more than 30 minutes.
- Physical Activity: It is beneficial to take walks and/or engage in light non-contact physical activities, following the injury. Once you are seen by our team of concussion specialists, additional recommendations will be discussed.
- Stress: Try to reduce additional stress, nervousness and anxiety by limiting focus on the injury and symptoms.
Concussion Hotline
Concerned about concussion and need help identifying symptoms or scheduling a concussion appointment? Contact our Concussion Hotline: