When is GP consultation recommended for concussion?

Concussion is a mild traumatic brain injury that can follow a blow, jolt, or fall. Headache, dizziness, nausea, light sensitivity, slowed thinking, memory difficulty, irritability, and unusual tiredness can occur even without loss of consciousness. A GP can assess the injury, check neurological function, review medicines, and advise on a gradual return to work, study, driving, and sport.

Stop the activity that caused the injury and have a responsible adult observe you if possible. Reduce demanding physical and mental activity, avoid alcohol, and do not drive or return to contact sport until a clinician says it is appropriate. Arrange a GP consultation when symptoms persist, interfere with daily tasks, or you need written guidance for school or work.

Go to emergency care for a worsening severe headache, repeated vomiting, seizure, increasing drowsiness, inability to wake normally, confusion, unusual behaviour, weakness, numbness, slurred speech, unequal pupils, or fluid or blood from the nose or ears. Urgent assessment is also needed after a significant impact or when the person takes blood-thinning medicine. Do not leave a deteriorating person alone.

Ask which activities are safe today, how to pace screen time and exercise, when driving may resume, which symptoms require emergency help, and whether follow-up is needed. Describe the mechanism of injury and any memory gap.