How effective is GP consultation for concussion?

After a head injury, a GP may ask what happened and whether you have headache, dizziness, nausea, vomiting, memory trouble, confusion, sensitivity to light, sleep changes or difficulty concentrating. They can check your neurological function and decide whether emergency assessment or further review is needed.

A normal initial examination does not mean you should ignore worsening symptoms. The consultation can provide written recovery advice, help you balance rest with gentle activity, and guide a gradual return to work, study, driving and sport.

Tell the GP if you take blood-thinning medicine, had a previous concussion, lost consciousness, have memory loss, or were injured without a reliable witness. Have someone keep an eye on you if advised, and avoid alcohol, contact sport and risky activity until you are told they are safe.

Follow the return-to-activity plan and reduce demands if symptoms flare. Do not drive or operate machinery while dizzy, confused or unable to concentrate safely. Keep the follow-up appointment if symptoms continue.

Go to emergency care for repeated vomiting, increasing drowsiness, worsening headache, seizure, new weakness or numbness, slurred speech, unequal pupils, confusion, fluid or blood from the ear or nose, or any sudden deterioration after the injury. Do not stay alone if serious symptoms are developing.

Ask which symptoms need emergency help, when you can drive or work, how to return to exercise, whether follow-up is needed, and what to do if concentration, sleep or headaches remain difficult.