Ten things to know about concussions
You’ve probably heard, “Don’t sleep if you have a concussion.” But that’s not entirely true, and a lot of what people think they know about concussions is outdated. Concussions are common, serious, and easy to underestimate, and knowing the facts can help you recognize the signs, avoid common mistakes, and get the right care sooner.
So, how do you know if that knock to your noggin is just an annoying injury or something more serious? When should you see a doctor? And what should you do if you think you’re concussed? Montage Medical Group sports medicine and family medicine specialist Marja-Liisa Magnuson, DO, has answers.
1. A concussion is a brain injury
A concussion is a mild traumatic brain injury caused by a hit to the head or sudden movement that makes the brain shift inside the skull. That movement can trigger inflammation and chemical changes that affect how the brain works.
"It’s not just ‘getting your bell rung,’” Magnuson says. “Concussions are a serious brain injury that can affect how you think, feel, sleep, and function.”
2. Concussions can happen almost anywhere
Sports are a common cause, but far from the only one. Magnuson says she sees concussions from falls, car accidents, and everyday accidents at home, like hitting your head on a cabinet.
3. Concussion symptoms aren’t always obvious
You don’t need to lose consciousness to have a concussion. Common symptoms include:
- Headache
- Nausea or vomiting
- Dizziness
- Light or sound sensitivity
- Vision changes
- Brain fog/trouble concentrating
- Sleep problems
- Mood changes
- Neck pain
4. If you feel “off,” get evaluated
One of the biggest mistakes people make is assuming they’re probably fine. If you hit your head and feel off, Magnuson says you should get evaluated. In some cases, primary or urgent care is the right place to start, but if the injury seems especially severe, the emergency department may be the most appropriate option.
5. Concussion treatment is about more than rest
People used to be told to sit in a dark room and do nothing. That “cocooning” approach, as Magnuson calls it, has largely been debunked. Today, concussion treatment usually includes:
- Early medical evaluation
- Good sleep
- Good nutrition
- Avoiding activities that clearly worsen symptoms
- Gradual return to light activity and exercise
6. Light exercise can actually help
After the first 24–48 hours, many people benefit from low-intensity exercise like walking, as long as it doesn't worsen symptoms.
“That gradual return to movement can help improve blood flow and flush out buildup in the brain,” Magnuson says.
7. Sleep is part of recovery, not something to avoid
A common myth is that someone with a concussion should be kept awake. That’s outdated.
“Normal sleep that night is really recommended for recovery,” Magnuson says. “But getting unusually drowsy right after a head injury is a red flag and should be evaluated right away.”
8. Screens can make symptoms and recovery worse
Phones, laptops, TV, and video games can worsen concussion symptoms, especially in the first few days. That doesn’t mean you need to avoid screens entirely, but it does mean paying attention to whether screen time makes symptoms worse.
9. Helmets don’t prevent concussions
Helmets are lifesaving, important, and necessary, but they don't make you concussion-proof. They help protect against skull fractures and severe trauma, but they can’t fully stop the brain from shifting inside the skull.
10. Concussion recovery depends on the person
Most adults recover in about five days to two weeks, but children can take longer since their brains are still developing. Others at risk for a longer, more intensive recovery include those with:
One of the worst things you can do for your brain, Magnuson says, is to suffer another head injury before the brain heals.
The bottom line
If you think you might have a concussion, don’t just “tough it out.” Get evaluated, watch symptoms closely, and give the brain time and support to recover.
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