What Does A Concussion Headache Feel Like?

by | Last updated on January 24, 2024

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Characteristics: Following a concussion, you can develop a headache that resembles a migraine headache . Pain tends to be in the front of the head area of your forehead or temple. It is commonly described as a ‘pounding’ or ‘throbbing’ pain. It is sometimes associated with nausea and sensitivity to light and noise.

How long do headaches last after head injury?

Fortunately, most headaches following head injury gradually taper off within the first three to six months . Even those unfortunate individuals who experience symptoms much longer can be helped.

Can a head injury cause headaches?

Common symptoms after a concussive traumatic brain injury are headache, loss of memory (amnesia) and confusion. The amnesia usually involves forgetting the event that caused the concussion. Physical signs and symptoms of a concussion may include: Headache.

Is a headache normal after hitting head?

With a head injury, it’s normal to have a headache and nausea . You may be dizzy or disoriented right afterward. You also may have problems focusing or remembering. Other symptoms include ringing in your ears, neck pain, or vision problems.

Can a past head injury cause headaches?

Persistent post-concussive symptoms, also called post-concussion syndrome, occurs when concussion symptoms last beyond the expected recovery period after the initial injury. The usual recovery period is weeks to months. These symptoms may include headaches, dizziness, and problems with concentration and memory.

What is the difference between a headache and a concussion?

How Do Concussions and Post -Traumatic Headaches Differ? A post-traumatic headache typically occurs after a traumatic brain injury, such as a concussion. This means that aching associated with a concussion is actually a post-traumatic headache, but a concussion is not the only cause of a post-traumatic headache.

How can I tell if a head injury is mild or severe?

  1. Mild head injury: Raised, swollen area from a bump or a bruise. Small, superficial (shallow) cut in the scalp. ...
  2. Moderate to severe head injury (requires immediate medical attention)–symptoms may include any of the above plus: Loss of consciousness.

Is it normal to feel pressure in your head after a concussion?

Concussion headaches can have a feeling of tension, tightness, and/or pressure. The feeling of increasing pressure in the head is often indicative of an autonomic nervous system headache .

What are the symptoms of a slow brain bleed?

  • Head pain.
  • Neck or back pain.
  • Neck stiffness.
  • Vision changes.
  • Photophobia.
  • Weakness on one side of the face or body.
  • Slurred speech.
  • Lethargy.

How do you treat a head injury headache?

  1. Over-the-counter pain medicines like acetaminophen (Tylenol®) or ibuprofen.
  2. Prescription medicines for migraine headache like sumatriptan (Imitrex®).
  3. Relaxation therapy/meditation.
  4. Biofeedback therapy.
  5. Stretching and self-massage.
  6. Acupuncture.

How long can post traumatic headaches last?

According to ICHD, post-traumatic headaches are of “no typical characteristics.” They must also occur within seven days of injury or regaining consciousness after injury. Acute headaches last less than three months . Headaches that persist for three months or more are chronic.

What is a concussion test?

Concussion testing assesses your brain function before and after a head trauma . The tests are done by a doctor or other health care professional with expertise in evaluating and treating people with concussions.

How do you know if your skull is fractured?

Serious symptoms of a skull fracture

What happens if a concussion goes untreated?

A: Concussion left untreated can lead to long-term complications. Potential complications of a concussion include chronic headaches, memory problems, vertigo , and post-concussion syndrome, which is headaches, dizziness, mood swings, and brain fog that can continue for months or years after a concussion.

How do eyes look when you have a concussion?

Blurred vision : Blurred vision along with double vision is one of the most common symptoms of a concussion. Blurry vision often becomes worse when someone is tired. Light sensitivity: The brain may have trouble adjusting to various levels of light after a head injury.

Do I have a concussion or a migraine?

Headache is the most commonly reported symptom of concussion , and although most individuals do not lose consciousness, some degree of confusion or altered mental status is to be expected. The most common migraine is one without an aura that meets 5 criteria (Table 1).

James Park
Author
James Park
Dr. James Park is a medical doctor and health expert with a focus on disease prevention and wellness. He has written several publications on nutrition and fitness, and has been featured in various health magazines. Dr. Park's evidence-based approach to health will help you make informed decisions about your well-being.