Concussions are one of the most common yet often misunderstood brain injuries, affecting individuals across all ages and activities. Whether resulting from a sporting collision, a fall, or a car accident, a concussion is a mild traumatic brain injury (mTBI) that disrupts normal brain function. Although many people recover fully with proper care, untreated concussions can lead to long-term complications that affect memory, balance, and mental health.
This article provides a comprehensive overview of concussions: what they are, how to recognise the signs, when to seek medical attention, and the latest updates on national concussion guidelines.
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What is a Concussion?
A concussion occurs when a sudden impact or jolt causes the brain to move rapidly within the skull. This movement can stretch or damage brain cells, leading to temporary chemical and functional changes. Contrary to popular belief, loss of consciousness is not required for a concussion to occur. Even minor knocks can cause significant effects, especially with repeated injuries over time.
Common causes include:
- Sports-related impacts (e.g. rugby, football, netball)
- Falls and accidents at home or work
- Vehicle collisions
- Physical assault or sudden whiplash movements
The Australian Institute of Health and Welfare (AIHW) reports that sports-related concussions have been rising in recent years, particularly among young athletes and older adults susceptible to falls (AIHW, 2024).
Recognising the Signs and Symptoms of Concussion
Concussion symptoms can appear immediately or develop over hours and days. Recognising early signs is crucial for safe management and recovery. Symptoms are typically grouped into four categories:
1. Physical symptoms
- Headache or pressure in the head
- Dizziness or balance problems
- Nausea or vomiting
- Sensitivity to light or noise
2. Cognitive symptoms
- Difficulty concentrating or remembering
- Confusion or feeling “foggy”
- Slowed reaction times
3. Emotional symptoms
- Irritability, sadness, or anxiety
- Sudden mood changes
4. Sleep-related symptoms
- Trouble falling asleep or sleeping too much
- Feeling unusually tired
Any combination of these symptoms should prompt caution and rest. If symptoms persist beyond a few days or worsen, it’s essential to seek medical advice immediately.
When to Seek Immediate Medical Attention
While most concussions resolve with rest and gradual return to activity, some symptoms signal more serious injury and require urgent medical care.
Seek emergency attention if you or someone else experiences:
- Persistent vomiting
- Increasing or severe headache
- Slurred speech or difficulty recognising people or places
- Weakness or numbness in limbs
- Unequal pupils or vision changes
- Seizures or repeated fainting
- Clear fluid or blood from the nose or ears
In children, red flags include inconsolable crying, refusal to eat, or lack of interest in play.
If in doubt, it is always safer to get checked by a doctor or attend the emergency department.
The Recovery Process
Recovery time varies depending on the individual and the severity of the injury. Most people recover within 10–14 days, but symptoms can persist longer in some cases, particularly after repeated concussions.
Best practices for recovery include:
- Rest: Both physical and cognitive rest (limiting screen time, reading, or work) in the early stages.
- Gradual return: Follow a step-by-step return-to-activity plan guided by a healthcare provider.
- Avoid risk: Refrain from sports or activities that may cause another head impact until cleared by a medical professional.
- Monitor symptoms: Keep a diary of changes in mood, balance, and memory.
Premature return to activity increases the risk of second impact syndrome, a rare but serious condition where a second concussion occurs before the brain has healed.
Concussion Management
Concussion treatment focuses on rest, symptom monitoring, and gradual recovery under medical supervision. For sports-related concussions, immediate removal from play is essential, followed by medical assessment and a structured return-to-sport plan that restores balance, coordination, and cognitive function safely. Players should not resume activity until they are symptom-free and cleared by a healthcare professional.
For accident-related concussions, such as those caused by falls or vehicle impacts, care often includes neurological evaluation, pain management, and physiotherapy for related neck or muscle injuries. Cognitive rehabilitation may be recommended if concentration or memory problems continue.
Mental rest is as important as physical rest. Avoiding screens, alcohol, and strenuous tasks supports recovery, while a gradual reintroduction of normal activities helps prevent relapse. Ongoing communication with doctors, family, and workplaces ensures complete recovery and lowers the risk of long-term effects.
In 2025, the University of Queensland (UQ), in partnership with the Australian Institute of Sport (AIS) and leading health organisations, released new national guidelines to improve concussion assessment and management across Australia (University of Queensland, 2025).
These guidelines emphasise:
- Early and accurate diagnosis by trained professionals
- Consistent management pathways across sports, workplaces, and schools
- A multidisciplinary recovery approach involving doctors, physiotherapists, and psychologists
- Long-term follow-up for recurrent concussions
You can read more about the new guidelines on the University of Queensland News site.
Preventing Concussion
While not all head injuries are avoidable, prevention remains key.
- Always wear appropriate protective equipment (helmets, headguards).
- Ensure safe playing techniques in contact sports.
- Reduce household fall risks by securing rugs, improving lighting, and using handrails.
- Encourage open discussion about symptoms, especially in schools and sporting teams, to reduce stigma around reporting head knocks.
Employers and coaches play a crucial role in creating safe environments and enforcing return-to-play protocols.
A concussion should never be ignored. Even mild symptoms can indicate brain injury requiring rest, monitoring, and medical oversight. With early recognition, adherence to clinical guidance, and ongoing awareness, most individuals can achieve full recovery and prevent long-term complications.
If you suspect a concussion, stop activity immediately and seek professional assessment.
References
- Australian Institute of Health and Welfare (AIHW) 2024, Sports injury hospitalisations in Australia 2022–23, AIHW, Canberra.
- University of Queensland 2025, National guidelines revolutionise concussion treatment, The University of Queensland News, viewed 3 November 2025, https://news.uq.edu.au/2025-11-national-guidelines-revolutionise-concussion-treatment