Prolonged strict rest associated with worse symptoms in some studies
Symptom-targeted therapy
Headache treatment based on phenotype
Vestibular therapy for dizziness
Education and reassurance
Reduces anxiety-driven symptom amplification
Return-to-learn priority
Academic reintegration before full return-to-play in most guidance
Patient Discharge Instructions
copy discharge instructions
Discharge instructions package
Diagnosis explanation
Concussion is a mild brain injury that can cause headache, dizziness, nausea, and trouble thinking
Home supervision
Adult supervision for the first 24 hours
Activity and rest
Light physical and mental rest for 24 to 48 hours
Gradual return to normal activity as symptoms allow
Driving and safety
No driving if dizzy, slowed, very sleepy, or not thinking clearly
Avoid alcohol and recreational drugs until fully recovered
Pain control
Acetaminophen as directed
Avoid NSAIDs in first 24 hours unless clinician says safe
Screen time
Reduce screen time early if it worsens symptoms
Return-to-learn and return-to-play
Return to school with breaks and reduced workload if needed
No sports until symptom-free and cleared by a clinician
Return to emergency immediately for any of the following
Worsening headache
Repeated vomiting
Increasing confusion or unusual behavior
Trouble waking up or excessive sleepiness
Weakness, numbness, trouble walking
Slurred speech
Seizure
Vision changes that are new or worsening
Clear fluid from nose or ears
Follow-up
Primary care or concussion clinic within 2 to 7 days
Earlier follow-up if symptoms worsen
References
Clinical guidelines and decision tools
Core guideline sources
ACEP Clinical Policy for Adult Mild Traumatic Brain Injury
CT decision tools and disposition guidance
CDC Guideline on the Diagnosis and Management of Mild Traumatic Brain Injury in Children
Imaging avoidance and return-to-activity guidance
Amsterdam International Consensus Statement on Concussion in Sport
Return-to-play framework
Brain Trauma Foundation guidance for traumatic brain injury principles
Resuscitation targets and secondary injury prevention
Decision rules primary sources
Canadian CT Head Rule derivation and validation studies
Adult minor head injury CT selection
New Orleans Criteria studies
Adult GCS 15 CT selection
NEXUS Head CT instrument studies
Adult CT selection
PECARN head trauma rule study
Pediatric very low risk identification
Symptom and recovery tools
SCAT6 materials
Athlete symptom and exam framework
Return-to-learn recommendations from pediatric and sports medicine societies
Academic accommodations guidance
SymptomDx is an educational tool for medical professionals. It does not replace clinical judgment. Verify all clinical data and drug dosages with authoritative sources.