Call 911 right away if:
- The person was knocked out, even for a moment, or can’t be woken up
- They have a seizure, repeated vomiting, or a headache that gets worse and won’t go away
- One pupil (the black center of the eye) is bigger than the other
- Slurred speech, weakness, numbness, or trouble walking or with balance
- They are very confused, restless, agitated, or acting strangely, or don’t recognize people or places
- Clear fluid or blood is coming from the nose or ears, or there is a deep cut or dent in the skull
- You think the neck or back may be hurt
- A baby or young child won’t stop crying or won’t nurse or eat
Signs of a concussion
A concussion is a brain injury caused by a bump, blow, or jolt to the head or body. Signs may show up right away or hours later:
- Headache or a feeling of pressure in the head
- Dizziness, balance problems, or blurry vision
- Nausea or vomiting
- Feeling foggy, slowed down, or confused
- Trouble remembering what happened
- Bothered by light or noise
- Mood changes, like being irritable or sad, or sleeping more or less than usual
What to do
- Don’t move the person if you think the neck or back is hurt. Keep their head and neck still and call 911.
- Stop any bleeding by pressing gently with a clean cloth. Don’t press hard if you think the skull may be broken.
- Put a cold pack wrapped in a cloth on a bump for up to 20 minutes at a time.
- Stay with them. Have a responsible adult stay with the person for the first 24 hours and watch for danger signs.
- Rest the brain and body. Take it easy for a day or two, then slowly return to normal activities as symptoms allow.
Sports and play
If a concussion is possible, stop playing for the day. “When in doubt, sit them out.” Don’t return to sports until a health care provider says it’s OK. A second head injury before the brain heals can be very serious.
Avoid
- Avoid alcohol and drugs while healing.
- Don’t drive until a health care provider says it’s safe.
See a doctor or go to urgent care if:
- Any signs of a concussion appear, even mild ones
- The person takes a blood thinner or is an older adult — get checked right away, even if the injury seems minor (an emergency room is often best)
- Symptoms don’t go away or get worse over the next days or weeks