Concussion first aid steps matters because a bump or blow to the head can happen to anyone. Whether it occurs on the sporting field, at work, or at home, head injuries demand your full attention. Even what seems like a minor knock to the head can have serious consequences if not handled correctly. How you respond in those first critical moments before medical help can make a difference and maybe even save a life.
What is a Concussion?
Concussion first aid begins with knowing what a concussion is. A concussion is a type of traumatic brain injury caused by a bump, blow, or jolt to the head which dislodges the brain so that it moves around inside the skull and may knock against the bone, disrupting normal brain function.
Concussions are classified as a mild traumatic brain injury because it is rarely life threatening. However, their effects can still be serious. Without proper management, a concussion can lead to post-concussion syndrome, where symptoms like headaches, dizziness, difficulty concentrating, and mood changes persist for weeks or months.
Concussion Signs and Symptoms
The next step in concussion first aid is being able to identify concussion symptoms. The signs and symptoms of concussion can vary. Some appear immediately after the injury, while others may develop over hours or even days.
Immediate symptoms can include:
- Confusion or feeling dazed
- Headache
- Dizziness
- Nausea or vomiting
- Blurred or double vision
- Sensitivity to light or noise
- Feeling sluggish or foggy
Delayed symptoms may appear hours after the injury and include:
- Difficulty concentrating or remembering
- Memory problems, especially about the event
- Sleeping more or less than usual
- Irritability and mood changes
Red flag symptoms require immediate emergency care. Seek medical attention immediately by calling Triple Zero if the person experiences any of the following:
- Loss of consciousness, even briefly
- Unequal pupils or abnormal eye movements
- Repeated vomiting
- Seizures or convulsions
- A severe or worsening headache
- Clear fluid from the nose or ears
- Weakness, numbness, or tingling in the arms or legs
- Slurred speech
- Increasing confusion, restlessness, or agitation
- Neck pain or tenderness on the spine
- Inability to recognise people or places
- Extreme drowsiness or inability to wake up
First Aid Steps for Head Injuries
The first and most important step in providing concussion first aid for a serious head injury is to stop whatever activity the person was doing and let them rest in a quiet, calm environment. “When in doubt, sit them out”. Encourage the injured person to stay calm and avoid unnecessary movement while they rest, and don’t leave them alone for at least the first three hours or until help arrives if you’ve called an ambulance.
Apply an ice pack wrapped in a cloth or towel to any bumps or swelling. Keep the ice pack in place for 15 to 20 minutes at a time before leaving for at least an hour. Repeat this as often as every two to three hours during the first 24 to 48 hours after the injury.
If there is any bleeding, place a clean cloth over the wound and apply firm, steady pressure. Hold for at least five minutes without lifting the cloth to check. If blood soaks through, add another cloth on top and keep the pressure constant.
Learn First Aid For Serious Head Injuries
Concussions and head injuries can happen without warning, but your response doesn’t have to be unprepared. The ability to recognise the signs and provide appropriate concussion first aid could be the difference between a full recovery and lasting damage. If you want to be ready the next time someone needs help, enrolling in a first aid course is the place to start.
FAQs
Can You Sleep After a Concussion?
Yes, rest is an important part of recovery. However, someone should check on the injured person every few hours during the first night to ensure they can be woken and their symptoms have not worsened.
How Long Does a Concussion Last?
Most people recover from a concussion within seven to fourteen days, with symptoms often resolving within the first few weeks. Children, older adults, and those with a history of previous concussions, may take longer to heal.
What Is Second Impact Syndrome?
Second impact syndrome is a rare but serious condition that occurs when someone sustains another head injury before fully recovering from the first concussion. The brain becomes vulnerable after the initial injury, and a second impact can cause rapid swelling that may lead to permanent brain damage or death.
