Concussion injury - what to do in the first 48 hours.

Concussions are a serious injury and require close monitoring especially in the first 48 hours, here’s what to do:

Do not go to sleep for at least 3 hours after the concussion. If you are the one watching the injured person, continue to talk to them and monitor for signs of deterioration.

After 3 hours, the concussed person can take a nap or go to sleep. Check on the injured person every 2 hours throughout the first night. They don’t have to be woken up, but make sure they are still breathing and seem okay.

Do not take any pain medication before consulting a medical doctor. Medications can “mask” the signs of a worsening condition and some can also increase the possibility of a brain bleed.

RED FLAGS Visit the Emergency Department if you have any of the following or if you are unsure:

• Vomiting

• Seizures

• Slurring of speech

• Very unsteady on feet

• Severe or worsening headache

• Drowsiness or can’t be awakened

• Weakness or numbness in arms or legs

• Unusual behavior, very confused, very irritable

• Decreasing level of consciousness > 2 hours after injury

• Fluid leaking from ears, bruising behind ears, 2 black eyes

• Inability to remember more than 30 minutes before the injury

The Physio Space as a clinic affiliated with the global Complete Concussion Management network, we have physiotherapists trained in assessing and treating concussions. If you would like to make an appointment or obtain more information, you can reach us at:

 Moss Vale Clinic: 4868 3994

Bowral Clinic: 4861 1223

Or book online via the website.