Symptoms of Concussion Symptoms of concussion can appear immediately after the injury or emerge gradually over hours or even days. Because a concussion affects the brain’s function—not its structure—there are usually no visible injuries, making symptom recognition vital for early diagnosis and care. Common Physical Symptoms Headache Dizziness or balance problems Nausea or vomiting Sensitivity to light or noise Fatigue or drowsiness Blurred or double vision These symptoms may last a few days or persist longer depending on the severity of the concussion and individual factors such as age and health status. Cognitive Symptoms | Symptoms of Concussion Confusion or difficulty concentrating Short-term memory loss (especially about the event that caused the concussion) Slowed thinking or response time Feeling mentally “foggy” or dazed These signs may interfere with work, studies, or day-to-day tasks and should not be ignored. Emotional and Behavioural Symptoms Irritability Mood swings or depression Anxiety or nervousness Unusual emotional responses Family members or colleagues may notice these changes before the injured person does, especially if the behavioural shift is subtle. Sleep Disturbances Trouble falling asleep Sleeping more or less than usual Feeling unrested after sleep Sleep problems are often overlooked but can significantly affect recovery and quality of life post-concussion. Red Flag Symptoms | Symptoms of Concussion Seek immediate medical attention if any of the following occur: Repeated vomiting Loss of consciousness (even briefly) Seizures Worsening headache Weakness or numbness Slurred speech In children, signs such as constant crying, lack of interest in toys or food, and drowsiness should prompt urgent care. In summary, symptoms of concussion are diverse and may affect physical, cognitive, and emotional functioning. Recognising these symptoms early ensures that appropriate steps can be taken to support recovery and avoid further harm. [Next: Diagnosis of Concussion →]