Concussion Detection

Know what to look for and when to seek help

🕵 How would you know?

Detecting a concussion requires awareness of actions, signs, and symptoms. These can appear immediately after an impact or develop over hours to days. When in doubt, sit out and get checked.

Signs and Symptoms of Concussion Infographic

Actions / Situations That May Mean You Might Have a Concussion

These are situations or behaviors that can happen right after a hit, fall, collision, or impact. If any of these occur, the athlete should stop playing and be evaluated.

Possible concussion-risk actions or situations

  • •A hit to the head or body followed by a noticeable change in performance or behavior
  • •Getting up slowly after a collision, fall, or impact
  • •Appearing dazed or unsteady when returning to play
  • •Avoiding activity or stepping away because something "doesn't feel right"
  • •Teammates or coaches noticing that the athlete seems confused or off

When in doubt, sit out and get checked.

Signs of a Concussion

(What Others May Notice)

These are outward changes seen by coaches, parents, teammates, trainers, or teachers.

Common concussion signs

  • •Balance problems, clumsy movements, or stumbling
  • •Slow responses, confusion, or difficulty following instructions
  • •Forgetting plays or events before or after the impact
  • •Blank or distant look
  • •Behavior or mood changes, irritability, or unusual emotions

If someone shows these signs after a hit or fall, they should be removed from activity.

Symptoms Caused by a Concussion

(What the Athlete May Feel)

These are internal experiences that the athlete may report or notice later. Symptoms may appear right away or develop over hours to days.

Common concussion symptoms

  • •Headache or pressure in the head
  • •Dizziness, nausea, or feeling off-balance
  • •Sensitivity to light or noise
  • •Trouble concentrating or feeling "foggy"
  • •Fatigue, irritability, or sleep changes

Symptoms are different for every athlete and may change over time.

If You Suspect a Concussion

  1. 1.
    Remove from activity immediately

    Stop playing sports or doing the activity right away

  2. 2.
    Tell a trusted adult

    Coach, teacher, parent, or athletic trainer

  3. 3.
    Get evaluated by a healthcare professional

    Don't try to "tough it out"

  4. 4.
    Do NOT return to play the same day

    Even if you feel better - this is crucial

  5. 5.
    Follow medical advice for recovery

    Rest and gradual return to activities

Learn About Recovery

Understand the proper steps for healing and returning to activities

Recovery Guide →