Concussion Symptoms After an Accident
A concussion is a mild traumatic brain injury caused by a blow to the head or a violent jolt to the body that shakes the brain inside the skull, and you do not need to lose consciousness for it to happen.
We are not a law firm or a medical provider. We connect you with doctors who treat these injuries.
Why this happens
Concussions are common in falls, car accidents, bike and scooter crashes, and any impact where the head is jolted, directly or indirectly. Symptoms can include headache, dizziness, confusion, feeling foggy or slowed down, sensitivity to light or noise, nausea, and short-term memory or concentration problems. Symptoms sometimes take hours to fully appear, so feeling okay immediately afterward doesn't rule it out.
When this is a medical emergency
Go to the emergency room right away if you notice:
- Loss of consciousness, even briefly
- Repeated vomiting or worsening headache
- Slurred speech, weakness, or trouble with coordination
- Increasing confusion, unusual drowsiness, or difficulty waking up
Commonly linked to these accident types
This symptom shows up often after these kinds of accidents. Find help specific to your situation.
Concussion Symptoms: find a doctor by city
Pick your city to see local care options, or contact us directly. We cover all of California.
Southern California
- Anaheim
- Bell Gardens
- Burbank
- Canoga Park
- Chula Vista
- Compton
- Costa Mesa
- Downey
- East LA Community
- East Los Angeles
- El Cajon
- El Monte
- Escondido
- Fullerton
- Garden Grove
- Glendale
- Huntington Beach
- Inglewood
- Irvine
- Koreatown
- Lake Forest
- Lancaster
- Long Beach
- Los Angeles
- Norwalk
- Oceanside
- Orange
- Oxnard
- Palmdale
- Pasadena
- Pomona
- San Diego
- Santa Ana
- Santa Clarita
- Simi Valley
- South Los Angeles
- Thousand Oaks
- Torrance
- Van Nuys
- Ventura
- Vista
- West Covina
Inland Empire
Bay Area
North Bay
Greater Sacramento
Central Coast
Care options for this symptom
Doctors and treatment
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Frequently asked questions
Can I have a concussion without losing consciousness?
Yes, most concussions do not involve losing consciousness. Symptoms like confusion, dizziness, a foggy feeling, or memory problems right after a hit to the head are enough to warrant medical evaluation.
How long do concussion symptoms usually last?
Most concussion symptoms improve within one to two weeks with rest and a gradual return to normal activity, guided by a doctor. Some people take longer, and any worsening symptoms should be re-evaluated right away.
Is it safe to go back to work or school right after a concussion?
Usually not immediately. A doctor can advise on a gradual return based on your symptoms, since going back to demanding mental or physical activity too soon can slow recovery.
Related guides
- Car AccidentsWhat to Do After a Car Accident With No InsuranceBeing in a car accident without insurance is stressful, but you still have options. Learn the steps to take immediately after a crash to protect your health and your rights in California.
- Medical CareDo I Need a Lawyer to See a Doctor After a Crash?No, you do not need a lawyer to get medical treatment after an accident. Many California clinics and providers will treat you on a lien basis, meaning you pay nothing upfront.
- ResourcesFree Medical Help for Undocumented Victims in CaliforniaUndocumented accident victims in California have the right to emergency medical care regardless of immigration status. This guide covers free and low-cost options available to you.