Looking After Yourself After a Head Injury

Most people recover well following a minor head injury. However, it is common to experience symptoms for a short period while your body recovers.

This page explains what symptoms are normal, what you can do to aid recovery and when you should seek urgent medical attention.

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Common Symptoms After a Head Injury

It is normal to experience some of the following symptoms:

• Feeling generally unwell or “off colour”
• Mild nausea without vomiting
• Dizziness
• Irritability or changes in mood
• Difficulty concentrating
• Problems sleeping
• Reduced appetite
• Feeling more tired than usual
• A mild headache

These symptoms should gradually improve over the coming days. Paracetamol can usually be used to help with mild headaches.

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Rest and Recovery

To support your recovery:

• Get plenty of rest
• Avoid stressful situations where possible
• Avoid sleeping tablets, sedatives or tranquillisers unless prescribed by a doctor
• Ensure you can contact help if needed
• Avoid being alone during the first 24 to 48 hours if possible
• Have a friend, relative or partner stay with you for at least the first 24 hours

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Returning to Normal Activities

Do not drive, ride a bicycle, operate machinery or return to potentially hazardous activities until you feel fully recovered.

Recovery times vary from person to person, so it is important to listen to your body and return to activities gradually.

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When Should I Seek Medical Advice?

Contact your GP if you are worried about your symptoms during the first few days after your injury.

If symptoms continue for more than two weeks, you should arrange an appointment with your GP for further advice.

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Seek Urgent Medical Attention Immediately

Call 999 or seek urgent medical help if you develop any of the following symptoms:

• Loss of consciousness
• Increasing drowsiness or difficulty waking up
• Confusion or unusual behaviour
• Any vomiting
• A severe headache that will not go away
• Problems with eyesight
• Loss of balance or difficulty walking
• Problems speaking
• A seizure or fit
• Weakness in one or both arms or legs
• Clear fluid coming from the ears or nose
• Bleeding from one or both ears
• New hearing loss or deafness

These symptoms may indicate a more serious injury and require immediate assessment.

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Other Sources of Help

If you urgently need medical advice but your condition is not life-threatening, contact NHS 111 by calling 111.

For less urgent concerns, contact your GP practice or local pharmacist.

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Need Further Support?

If you have any concerns about your recovery following a head injury, seek medical advice promptly. Most people recover fully, but it is important to recognise warning signs and know when to seek help.