Head injury symptoms include:

• Headache or pressure in the head
• Dizziness or light-headedness
• Nausea or vomiting
• Blurred vision or sensitivity to light
• Ringing in the ears or hearing loss
• Confusion or disorientation
• Memory loss or difficulty concentrating
• Slurred speech or difficulty speaking
• Fatigue or drowsiness
• Changes in mood or behaviour
• Loss of consciousness (even briefly)

It is important to note that symptoms may not appear immediately after a head injury and can develop over time. If you or someone you know experience any of these symptoms after a head injury, seek medical attention.

Head injuries can range from minor bruises and nose bleeds through to life threatening head and neck injuries. If you suspect a head injury, you should contact a qualified physician immediately. While you are waiting for a physician, you can follow the below injury management tips:

Below is a list of what one may do to give first aid to another person with a head injury:

• Call for emergency medical assistance if the person is unconscious, has a seizure, or is bleeding heavily from the head.
• Keep the person calm and still and try to prevent them from moving their head or neck.
• If the person is conscious, have them sit or lie down with their head elevated.
• Apply a cold compress or ice pack to the injured area for 15-20 minutes at a time, with breaks in between.
• Monitor the person's breathing and pulse and be prepared to perform CPR if necessary.
• Do not give the person any medication unless instructed to do so by a medical professional.
• Stay with the person until medical help arrives and provide any necessary information to the paramedics or emergency responders.

Remember, head injuries can be serious, and it is important to seek medical attention as soon as possible.

Below highlights some information on what one might expect when getting treated for a head injury or concussion at the hospital:

• The medical staff will perform a physical exam and may order imaging tests to assess the severity of the injury.
• Treatment may include medication for pain or swelling, rest, and monitoring of symptoms.
• In some cases, hospitalisation may be necessary for observation or further treatment.
• The medical staff will provide instructions on how to care for the injury at home, including when to return for follow-up appointments.
• Recovery time can vary depending on the severity of the injury, and it is important to follow the medical staff's instructions for rest and recovery.
• In some cases, rehabilitation or physical therapy may be necessary to help the person regain strength and function after a head injury.
  
   

We suggest the below as a rough guide to self-care following a concussion or head injury. Please note this is only a guide, and a medical professional will be able to advise key steps to ensuring recovery.

• Get plenty of rest and avoid activities that could cause further injury.
• Avoid alcohol and drugs that could interfere with the healing process.
• Take over-the-counter pain medication as directed by a medical professional.
• Avoid bright lights and loud noises that could worsen symptoms.
• Gradually return to normal activities as symptoms improve but avoid activities that could cause a setback.
• Follow up with medical professionals as directed and report any new or worsening symptoms. 
  
   

See below for some long-term effects that a person may experience after a head injury or concussion:

• Post-concussion syndrome, which can cause symptoms such as headaches, dizziness, and difficulty concentrating for weeks or months after the injury.
• Increased risk of developing neurological disorders such as Parkinson's disease or dementia later in life.
• Changes in mood or behaviour, such as depression, anxiety, or irritability.
• Sleep disturbances, such as insomnia or excessive sleepiness.
• Sensitivity to light or noise.
• Difficulty with balance or coordination.
• Seizures or epilepsy.
• Chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE), a degenerative brain disease that can cause symptoms such as memory loss, confusion, and mood changes.

It is important to seek medical attention if you or someone you know experiences any of these symptoms after a head injury or concussion.

You should go to the hospital for a head injury or concussion if you or someone else are experiencing:

• Loss of consciousness, even if only briefly.
• Seizures or convulsions.
• Severe headache that does not improve with over-the-counter pain medication.
• Vomiting or nausea.
• Slurred speech or difficulty speaking.
• Weakness or numbness in the arms or legs.
• Changes in vision, such as double vision or loss of vision.
• Clear fluid draining from the nose or ears.
• Confusion or disorientation.
• Unequal pupil size or non-reactive pupils.

After a head injury or concussion, the timing for resuming normal activities can vary depending on the severity of the injury and the individual's recovery progress. It is important to follow medical staff's instructions for rest and recovery, and to gradually return to normal activities as symptoms improve.

For driving, work, and school, it is important to discuss with a healthcare professional and follow their recommendations.

For sports, it is important to wait until symptoms have completely resolved and medical clearance by a healthcare professional has been given.

Regarding alcohol consumption, it is recommended to avoid alcohol until symptoms have completely resolved and medical clearance has been given by a healthcare professional.

Overall, prioritise rest and recovery after a head injury or concussion, and follow medical staff's instructions for returning to normal activities.

While life sometimes gets the better of us, and injuries can be unavoidable in some instances, here are some tips for preventing head injuries and concussions:

• Wear a properly fitted helmet when participating in sports or activities that could result in head injury.
• Use seat belts and child safety seats in vehicles and follow traffic laws when driving or cycling.
• Install and use handrails on stairs and in bathrooms to prevent falls.
• Use a mouthguard when participating in contact sports to prevent dental injuries. To fit a mouthguard, boil it in water and then bite down on it to mould it to your teeth.
• Avoid alcohol and drugs that can impair judgment and increase the risk of injury.
• Be aware of your surroundings and potential hazards, such as wet floors or uneven surfaces.
• Seek medical attention for any head injury or concussion and follow medical staff's instructions for rest and recovery.

By following these tips, you may be able to reduce your risk of head injuries and concussions.

• Triple 0 (000) for emergency medical assistance.
• Emergency department of the nearest hospital for immediate medical attention.
• Your GP for ongoing care and management of symptoms.
• Brain Injury Australia (https://www.braininjuryaustralia.org.au/) for information and support for people with brain injuries and their families.