Head Injury & Concussion

Head injury can affect thinking, movement and everyday life. Alcohol can increase injury risk and make concussion harder to recognise.

A concussion is a brain injury caused by a blow or jolt that makes the brain move rapidly. Someone can have a concussion without being knocked unconscious, and a routine brain scan can look normal. Neither fact makes their symptoms imaginary.

Alcohol adds uncertainty. It can impair balance and judgement before an injury, then overlap with injury symptoms afterwards. Missing memories, unsteadiness or unusual behaviour cannot establish the cause on their own. An injury and intoxication can be present together.

After a head injury, inability to wake or stay awake, a seizure, repeated vomiting, a worsening headache, new weakness or increasing confusion need immediate emergency medical help. Do not wait for alcohol to wear off before taking deterioration seriously. Suspected concussion also needs medical assessment when there are no obvious emergency signs.

Sudden confusion needs immediate medical help.

Recovery varies. Some people improve steadily; others have continuing difficulties that need further assessment and support. Reducing further injury risk matters, alongside getting help with alcohol use where needed. Someone who may be physically dependent on alcohol should seek medical advice before abruptly stopping or sharply reducing drinking.

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