Signs of a Concussion: What to Watch For
A concussion can happen in a split second — from a fall, crash, or collision — but the effects can linger long after the impact.
Because concussions are invisible injuries, it’s not always easy to know when something’s wrong. That’s why understanding the signs and symptoms is so important — catching them early can prevent long-term complications and speed up recovery.
At Save A Brain, our mission is to make concussion awareness accessible for everyone — athletes, parents, coaches, and weekend adventurers alike.
Here’s what you need to know about the red flags of a concussion and how to recognize when your brain needs a break.
What Is a Concussion?
A concussion is a mild traumatic brain injury (mTBI) caused by a bump, blow, or jolt to the head (or even a hit to the body that shakes the brain inside the skull).
When this happens, the brain moves suddenly and can twist or bounce, disrupting normal brain function.
This can affect how you think, feel, sleep, and move — which is why concussion symptoms can look different for everyone.
Common Concussion Symptoms
Concussion symptoms can appear immediately, or they might not show up until hours — sometimes even days — after the injury.
It’s important to pay attention to how you feel over time, not just right after the incident.
Here are the most common signs to watch for 👇
Physical Symptoms
These are the most recognizable signs of a concussion — they affect how your body feels.
Headache or pressure in the head
Dizziness or balance issues
Nausea or vomiting
Fatigue or feeling unusually tired
Sensitivity to light or noise
Vision changes or blurred vision
Even if symptoms seem “mild,” your brain is signaling that something’s off. Never ignore a headache or dizziness after a hit.
Cognitive (Thinking) Symptoms
These affect how your brain processes information and communicates.
Feeling “foggy” or slowed down
Trouble concentrating or remembering things
Confusion about time, place, or recent events
Slower reaction time
If your thoughts feel scrambled or it’s hard to focus — that’s your brain’s way of saying it needs rest.
Emotional Symptoms
A concussion doesn’t just affect your body — it can impact your emotions, too.
Mood swings or irritability
Anxiety, sadness, or feeling easily overwhelmed
Short temper or frustration with small things
These emotional changes can be confusing, but they’re a normal part of the healing process. Patience, support, and communication make all the difference here.
Sleep-Related Symptoms
Your brain heals while you rest — which is why sleep disruptions are one of the most common (and frustrating) concussion symptoms.
Trouble falling or staying asleep
Sleeping more than usual
Feeling groggy or unrested
If your sleep suddenly changes after a head impact, it’s another sign that your brain is working overtime to recover.
Red Flags: When to Seek Immediate Medical Care
While most concussions heal with proper rest and care, some symptoms are serious warning signs that need immediate medical attention.
Go to the ER or call emergency services if you notice:
Repeated vomiting
Worsening or severe headache
Slurred speech
Unequal pupil size
Seizures
Loss of consciousness (even briefly)
Increasing confusion or drowsiness
These could indicate a more serious brain injury like bleeding or swelling and should never be ignored.
Why Early Recognition Matters
One of the biggest mistakes people make after a concussion is trying to push through it — going back to sports, school, or work before the brain has healed.
Doing too much too soon increases the risk of second impact syndrome, a dangerous condition where a second concussion occurs before the first one has fully recovered.
Even if symptoms seem to fade, the brain may still be vulnerable.
When in doubt, sit it out. It’s better to miss one game than to risk your long-term brain health.
Healing Takes Time
Concussions are complex — no two recoveries look exactly alike.
Some people bounce back in a week or two, while others experience symptoms like fatigue, headaches, or fogginess for months.
The best thing you can do for your brain is to listen to it:
Prioritize rest and hydration
Limit screens and bright light exposure
Ease back into activity slowly
Seek follow-up care from a brain injury specialist if symptoms persist
