Any of the following symptoms experienced in a new way after an accident are indicative of concussion. Some of them will be noticed by someone other than the patient. The more symptoms you experience, the more significant the concussion.
Physical symptoms:
- Headache
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Balance problems
- Dizziness
- Visual Problems
- Fatigue
- Sensitivity to light
- Sensitivity to noise
- Numbness/Tingling
Cognitive symptoms:
- Feeling mentally foggy
- Feeling slowed down
- Difficulty concentrating
- Difficulty remembering
Emotional symptoms:
- Irritability
- Sadness
- More emotional
- Nervousness
Sleep symptoms:
- Drowsiness
- Sleeping less than usual
- Sleeping more than usual
- Trouble falling asleep
If these symptoms are present, additionally note if physical or cognitive activity worsens the symptoms, and rate just how different the patient is acting than his/her usual self (where 0 is normal and 6 is very different.)
RED FLAGS for acute emergency management of concussion: Refer to the emergency department with sudden onset of any of the following:
- Headaches that worsen
- Looks very drowsy/ can’t be awakened
- Can’t recognize people or places
- Neck pain
- Seizures
- Repeated vomiting
- Increasing confusion or irritability
- Unusual behavioral change
Focal Neurologic Signs:
- Slurred speech
- Weakness or numbness in arms/legs
- Change in state of consciousness