You should always seek medical treatment after a head injury, even if you believe you’re okay. Also, you should rest for a couple of days, and then slowly return to your regular activities. Monitor yourself for potential symptoms. According to the CDC, most people recover from a concussion within a few days or weeks, but some take longer.
What You Should Do Right After a Concussion
No two head injuries are the same. However, there are general recommended steps you can take after suffering a concussion.
- Seek medical attention. You should have a doctor examine even your “mild” concussion. Many head trauma symptoms don’t appear until much later.
- Rest as much as possible. Then, once you receive medical clearance, you may be able to practice light activities, like a brief walk.
- Healing takes time. Don’t return to your regular activities until a doctor confirms that it’s okay.
Ultimately, only a doctor or other medical staff can outline your recovery timeline. Most people bounce back from a concussion fairly quickly. But recovery looks different for everyone.
Whether minor or severe, a traumatic brain injury (TBIs) can change your life forever. Trust a skilled personal injury attorney to help you build a strong claim.
The Warning Signs of a Serious Brain Injury
Concussion symptoms may not appear immediately. They can take hours, or even days, to appear. You should watch yourself closely after a head injury. Our guide for delayed injury symptoms after an accident explains more.
However, you should always call 911 if you experience any of the following symptoms. Don’t wait to see if the symptoms pass.
- A headache that keeps getting worse
- Repeated vomiting
- Seizures or convulsions
- Slurred speech or unusual confusion
- One pupil larger than the other
Understanding Your Legal Options After a Concussion
If you’re injured by someone else’s negligence, you may have a legal claim. No concussion is cheap. After an accident, you may be able to recover money for:
- Medical bills and future care
- Lost wages and lost earning ability
- Pain, suffering, and emotional distress
However, you should never settle too early. Concussion symptoms can last longer than expected. Insurers may also send you to an “independent medical examination” to question how hurt you are. Our guide for the independent medical examination (IMEs) explains how to prepare.
Frequently Asked Questions About Concussions
What should you do after a concussion?
What you should do after a concussion is see a doctor, even if it feels mild. Rest for the first day or two, then slowly add light activity as your symptoms allow. Avoid driving, sports, and hard activity until a doctor clears you. Watch closely for danger signs, and call 911 if any appear.
What are the warning signs of a head injury?
Lingering symptoms of head injury may include a headache, repeated vomiting, seizures, or slurred speech. According to the CDC, these signs can mean a serious brain injury. If you notice any of them, call 911 or go to the ER immediately.
How long does it take to recover from a concussion?
Most people recover from a concussion, or mild TBI, within a few days or weeks, according to the CDC. The Mayo Clinic notes that about 1 in 5 people take longer. When symptoms last weeks or months, it is called post-concussion syndrome. Rest, then a gradual return to activity under a doctor’s care, supports healing.
What should you not do after a concussion?
After a concussion, do not return to sports, driving, or hard physical activity on the day of your injury. Do not ignore worsening symptoms or danger signs. Avoid alcohol, and do not take a second blow to the head before you heal, since that can cause serious harm. Always follow your doctor’s guidance before resuming activities.
Can I get compensation for a concussion from an accident?
Yes, if another person’s negligence caused your concussion, you may be able to recover compensation. This can include medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering. Because concussion symptoms can linger, it is wise not to settle before you know the full extent of your injury.
Can concussion symptoms appear days later?
Yes. Concussion symptoms do not always appear right away. According to the CDC, they can take hours or even days to show up after a head injury. This delay is why you should watch yourself closely after any blow to the head and see a doctor if new symptoms appear. Prompt care also protects any injury claim.
Trust Alexander Shunnarah Trial Attorneys Today
A concussion is never something to brush off, and its effects can last far longer than you expect. When a careless driver or property owner caused your injury, we fight for the full value of your claim. Do not settle for less than you deserve. Schedule a free case review today.
Reviewed by Alexander Shunnarah, Attorney and Chief Executive Officer at Alexander Shunnarah Trial Attorneys, on 2026-10-20.
