Concussion: Signs, Symptoms, and First Aid Awareness

A concussion is a type of mild traumatic brain injury caused by a blow or jolt to the head or body that causes the brain to move rapidly inside the skull. Many individuals recover quickly, but in some cases, symptoms may last days, weeks, or longer.

Recovery can be slower in children, teenagers, and older adults. Individuals who have had a previous concussion are at greater risk of future concussions and often experience longer recovery times if another injury occurs.

Common Signs and Symptoms of a Concussion

Concussion symptoms vary and may appear immediately or be delayed for hours or days. They are commonly grouped into four categories:

Thinking and Memory

• Feeling slowed down

• Difficulty thinking clearly

• Trouble concentrating

• Difficulty remembering new information

Emotional and Mood Changes

• Irritability

• Sadness

• Nervousness or anxiety

• Increased emotional responses

Physical Symptoms

• Headache

• Dizziness

• Nausea or vomiting

• Blurred vision

• Balance problems

• Sensitivity to noise or light

• Fatigue or low energy

Sleep Disturbances

• Sleeping more than usual

• Sleeping less than usual

• Difficulty falling asleep

Some individuals may appear fine outwardly but feel very different internally. Because symptoms can be subtle, concussions are sometimes missed or minimized, especially in children and athletes.

When to Seek Medical Care

While most concussions are not life-threatening, serious complications can occur. A worsening headache or neurological changes may indicate bleeding or swelling in the brain.

Danger Signs in Adults

Seek emergency medical care if any of the following occur:

• Headache that worsens or does not improve

• Slurred speech

• Weakness, numbness, or poor coordination

• Repeated vomiting or nausea

• Increasing confusion or agitation

Danger Signs in Children

Bring a child to the emergency department immediately if they experience:

• Refusal to nurse or eat

• Persistent crying that cannot be consoled

• Any adult danger signs listed above

• Unusual drowsiness or difficulty waking

First Aid Awareness and Safety Note

This information is provided for educational and first aid awareness purposes only and does not replace medical evaluation or treatment. Anyone suspected of having a concussion should stop activity immediately and be assessed by a healthcare professional. Returning to normal activities too soon increases the risk of serious brain injury, especially in children and youth.

Recognizing concussion symptoms and knowing when to seek medical help is a key part of first aid education. St. Mark James Training, Canada’s largest 100% Canadian-owned and operated first aid and CPR training provider, offers first aid and CPR training in Canada that includes head injury recognition, emergency response, and injury prevention.