The consequences of a concussion are often short-lived, but can have a clear impact on daily life. Common symptoms include headache, concentration problems, memory problems, dizziness, tiredness, mood changes and sleep problems.

Not everyone who receives a blow to the head or body develops a concussion. Also, loss of consciousness is not a prerequisite for diagnosis — most people do not lose consciousness

What causes a concussion?

Concussions are usually caused by:

• Falls (the most common cause)
• Sports injuries, especially in contact sports such as football or hockey
• Accidents involving sudden movement or impact on the head or neck

Symptoms of a concussion

The symptoms may vary from person to person and do not always occur immediately. They can also develop hours or even days after the injury.

Common symptoms include:

Physical symptoms

• Headaches
• Nausea or vomiting
• Dizziness or balance problems
• Blurred vision
• Sensitivity to light or sound
• Tiredness or sleepiness
• Ringing in the ears

Cognitive symptoms

• Trouble concentrating
• Memory problems
• Feeling of confusion or “blurriness”
• Slower thinking

Emotional symptoms

• Irritability
• Being more emotional than usual
• Anxiety or gloom

Sleep-related symptoms

• Sleeping more or less than usual
• Trouble falling asleep or staying asleep

A common feature is amnesia, where someone no longer remembers the event that caused the concussion.

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Recovery and outlook

Most people recover completely from a concussion within a few days to weeks. However, some people can have symptoms longer.

Rest and a gradual return to normal activities are essential for recovery. It is important not to return to physically or mentally intensive activities too quickly, as this can worsen the symptoms or delay recovery.

For athletes, it's extra important not to return to sports within the first 48 hours. This is the most important period in which complaints often increase significantly and alarm signals can occur. A gradual and guided development of activities is recommended.

When to seek medical attention

If you think you've had a concussion in the past few days/weeks, It is important to contact your doctor for assessment and advice.

Then follow the steps below:

Contact your doctor: this is always the first step.

Outside office hours, you can call the GP office (HAP).

Seek immediate medical attention (call 112 for emergency care) if you have serious symptoms such as confusion, double vision, repeated vomiting, severe headache, seizures, drowsiness, or loss of consciousness.

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Your doctor can assess whether it is a concussion and advise you on the right care.

Always seek immediate medical attention for serious symptoms such as:

• Repeated vomiting
• Severe or increasing headache
• Confusion or deviance
• Extreme sleepiness
• Loss of consciousness

If you think you've had a concussion in the past few days/weeks, follow the steps below:

• Contact your doctor: this is always the first step.
• Outside office hours, you can call the GP office (HAP).
• Seek immediate medical attention (call 112 for emergency care) if you have serious symptoms such as confusion, double vision, repeated vomiting, severe headache, seizures, drowsiness, or loss of consciousness.

Your doctor can assess whether it is a concussion and advise you on the right care.

Lastly

Although a concussion is considered a mild brain injury, it should always be taken seriously. With the right guidance and a gradual build-up of activities, most people recover well and can get back to their normal daily life.

If symptoms persist, or if you feel uncertain about the right intensity of building up, professional support can help guide recovery and improve the quality of life.