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Recovering from Post Concussion Symptoms
Vancouver Coastal Health provided this information bulletin.

What is a concussion or a mild traumatic brain injury?

A concussion may be caused by a direct blow or jolt to your head face and neck
A concussion causes disruption of normal brain functioning
You probably had a concussion if you were dazed or confused after your injury lost consciousness knocked out or cant remember what happened for a short time after your injury

What are the common symptoms and their duration?

The most frequent symptoms are headaches tiredness dizziness sleep disturbance and difficulties with concentration and learning new things You may also feel anxious worried depressed and irritable
You may experience none a few or many of these symptoms these symptoms are part of the normal recovery process
Symptoms may become more apparent when you return to work school or your full daily routine
Recovery from concussion varies from person to person Most people start to feel better within hours or days however some symptoms may last for days weeks or longer

The first 24 hours after injury

For the first 24 hours after your injury you must have someone with you This person must wake you up every 1 to 2 hours and check for the following symptoms:

Persistent vomiting stiff neck and headaches
Unequal pupils one pupil large one small
Confusion or unusual drowsiness
Convulsions or unconsciousness
Stumbling or other problems with normal use of arms or legs
Numbness in arm or legs
Persistent runny nose

Go to Emergency if any of these symptoms develop

Follow a clear liquid diet for 12 24 hours

How can I help with my recovery?
Rest

After 24 hours you may still need to rest for a few more days avoid strenuous exercise
Make sure you get a good nights sleep talk to your doctor if you have difficulty sleeping
Tiredness can result in an increase of your symptoms

Health

Do not drink alcohol or take other substances if you are still experiencing symptoms as brain healing may be slowed down
Only take medicine prescribed by the doctor
Eat lightly for the first 1 2 days after your injury

Exercise and sport

You can start light aerobic exercise such as walking and stationery bike once you are symptom free
Gradually increase activity intensity so long as you remain symptom free
Do not put yourself at risk for another concussion avoid contact or recreational sports where there is a risk of you getting hit on the head e g hockey soccer football skiing snow boarding cycling until your recovery is complete
Always wear proper protective equipment

Driving

Do not drive for 24 hours after your injury
You may be slow to react for several more days you should not start to drive again until you are symptom free Then start with caution and avoid long trips or heavy traffic
Ask your doctor when you can drive ride a bike or operate heavy machinery

Daily Activities Work or School

Resume activities gradually a little at a time
Pace yourself
If you don't feel your normal self and cannot concentrate you are unlikely to be much use at school or work and it is better to take a few days off
Plan a gradual return to work or school
Reduce your workload initially and build in rest periods
Modify or simplify the activities you do
Allow yourself more time to complete tasks or projects
Write things down if you find it hard to remember make lists and use a daily planner
Try to do one thing at a time if you feel overwhelmed
If you are easily distracted work in a quiet distraction free place
Keep stress level low as stress may result in an increase of your symptoms

Making important decisions

It may be helpful to consult with family or a close friend in the first few weeks after your injury

Where can I get help?
If you had a recent concussion and would like to talk to someone about your recovery please call the Early Response Brain Injury Service.

An early intervention and follow up service for people with a concussion or mild traumatic brain injury offered by GF Strong Rehabilitation Centre at 604 714 4186.