How Long a Concussion Can Last and When to Resume Normal Activities

A concussion is a type of brain injury that temporarily disrupts normal brain function. Recovery time can vary from a few days to several weeks—or longer—depending on the severity, type of concussion, and how quickly treatment begins.

Concussion Grades and Symptoms

Concussions are often classified into five grades:

• Grade 0: Headache or trouble concentrating

• Grade 1: Same symptoms as Grade 0, plus feeling dazed for under one minute

• Grade 2: Dazed for over a minute, with possible amnesia, confusion, dizziness, or irritability

• Grade 3: Brief loss of consciousness (under one minute)

• Grade 4: Loss of consciousness lasting more than a minute

Common Concussion Subtypes

Each subtype comes with its own symptoms and targeted treatments:

• Cognitive: Memory and attention issues; treated with neuropsychological assessments

• Ocular-motor: Vision problems and eye strain; treated with optometrist-led vision therapy

• Headache/migraine: Light or sound sensitivity; treated with headache management

• Vestibular: Dizziness and imbalance; treated with vestibular-ocular therapy

• Anxiety/mood: Fatigue, sadness, irritability; treated with counseling and CBT

Warning Signs That Need Immediate Care

Seek urgent medical attention if you experience:

• Seizures

• Inability to wake up

• Repeated vomiting

• Worsening headache

• Loss of consciousness

• Symptoms persisting or worsening after 10–14 days

Rest and Gradual Return to Activity

Both physical and mental rest are essential early on, but too much inactivity can actually slow recovery. Start light activities once symptoms improve, and avoid pushing through discomfort.

Return to sports or intense activity only when you are:

• Completely symptom-free at rest, with mental tasks, and during exercise

• Off all medications for concussion symptoms

• Cleared by a healthcare provider

Athletic Concussion Protocol

Recovery for athletes often follows a stepwise plan:

1. Light aerobic exercise: Walking, stationary cycling

2. Moderate activity: Jogging, light weightlifting

3. Non-contact drills: Sport-specific practice without contact

4. Clearance phase: Full contact and competition allowed only after medical approval

Activities to Avoid While Healing

To prevent setbacks, steer clear of:

• High-intensity exercise

• Loud music and bright screens

• Alcohol

• Long flights or travel

• Activities that trigger symptoms

Bottom line

Recovery from a concussion depends on the injury’s severity, your health history, and how closely you follow your treatment plan. Returning too soon especially to sports can increase risks and delay healing. Work closely with your healthcare provider to guide your recovery step-by-step.

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