Headaches that develop after a concussion was sustained are considered as common and lasting side effects of most cases of head injuries. Although anyone who has sustained a head injury and suffers from lingering symptoms such as nausea, dizziness or loss of memory, it is best to seek medical care. As for concussion headaches, there are home remedies that you can carry out at home.
Initially, you have to consult a doctor and explain the headache symptoms particularly the severity and frequency. The doctor will perform a physical examination before deciding the right treatment for the headache. Always follow the directions given by the doctor and the first aid measures to provide relief to the symptoms.
Measures to provide relief to concussion headaches
- Encourage the individual to stay in an environment that is dimly lit and free from noise. Take note that bright lights and noise even in moderate levels can irritate post-concussion syndrome while at the same time worsen the headache of the individual.
- With a clean towel or washcloth, moisten it with cool water and place it on the forehead and temples so that it can cover as much of the skin as possible. This will help minimize the dull and persistent ache of a concussion headache.
- Encourage the individual to get enough rest. Always remember that rest is vital in treating concussions and the headache that often occurs after. The individual should take some time away from work if the lingering symptoms disrupt his/her ability to carry out daily tasks normally.
- Provide over-the-counter pain medications such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen to treat the post-concussion headache based on the directions given by the doctor. Always inform the doctor if the pain medications could not provide enough relief.
- Encourage the individual to drink plenty of water. Dehydration can drastically worsen the post-concussion headaches.
- The individual should only resume daily activities once the symptoms have completely disappeared and he/she remained asymptomatic for a time frame prescribed by the doctor. The doctor must be consulted before the individual goes back to work or school and make sure that he/she has been given medical clearance to engage in sports after fully recovering from a concussion.
Important considerations to bear in mind
The individual must avoid drinking alcoholic beverages or engage in strenuous physical activity while recovering from a concussion in order to ensure proper recovery from the injury.
Aspirin must not be given to individuals who have suffered from a serious concussion. In case there is bruising or swelling that was not detected, aspirin will only worsen the condition since it promotes bleeding.
Do not go beyond the recommended daily dosage of over-the-counter pain medications. If these medications do not work, it is best to consult a doctor so that a stronger medication can be prescribed by the doctor.