A concussion can seriously affect your quality of life. The physical and mental symptoms can be frightening, and not knowing how long you’ll have to deal with them can add stress to an already stressful situation. So, how long does a concussion last?
How Long Does a Concussion Last?
If you are experiencing a concussion, you may be wondering about your recovery time. The good news is that most people do recover from a concussion in three to four weeks. However, there are several factors that can affect recovery time that you should be aware of.
Always Seek Treatment for a Concussion
The first and most important step in understanding how long your concussion will last is seeking medical advice. If you have been in an accident of some kind and you are experiencing common concussion symptoms, it is very important that you seek medical attention. A concussion is a traumatic brain injury, and if it is not diagnosed and treated appropriately, it can lead to further complications. If you suspect you have a concussion, we encourage you to visit one of the National Dizzy & Balance Center clinics right away if you live in or near the Twin Cities. Our intake process involves a full screening for symptoms, including medical imaging if needed. If a concussion is diagnosed, our team of qualified medical professionals will help you make a plan to recover.
What Factors Make Concussion Recovery Take Longer?
Once a doctor has confirmed your concussion, they will be able to tell you how long they expect your recovery to take. While most concussion cases resolve on a relatively quick timeline, there are two things that can make it take longer.
Concussion Severity
Concussions are not simple injuries, and they vary in severity. The more severe your concussion is, the longer it will take to fully recover. Concussions are also very individualized injuries. Treatments that are appropriate for some patients will not be appropriate for others. This is another reason that it is very important to seek medical attention right away. A doctor will be able to assess your concussion’s severity and create an appropriate treatment plan and expected recovery timeline.
Ignoring the Treatment Plan
Sticking to the treatment plan your doctor creates for you is vital. If you’re feeling better, it can be hard to remind yourself to rest and follow your doctor’s orders regarding physical and mental activity. You need to keep in mind that even if you feel recovered, your body is still healing. Failing to give your body the recovery time and resources your doctor recommends means that healing will likely take longer. “Toughing it out” may actually make your symptoms worse.
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So, how long does a concussion last? If your concussion is promptly diagnosed by a qualified medical professional, and you stick to the treatment plan, it is very likely that your concussion will be over within a month or so. That said, every concussion is different. Treatment and duration vary.
No matter what kind of concussion you’re dealing with, expert treatment can make a difference in your recovery time. Don’t wait to get help. Call us today!
Worried you might have a concussion? Are you in need of medical or legal advice and wondering where to turn? Reach out to the professionals at the National Dizzy & Balance Center. We specialize in diagnosing and treating vestibular disorders, including concussions. Our talented team members can evaluate the extent of your concussion and design a personalized plan to relieve your symptoms. To learn more about our approach to concussion management, please contact us online or by phone. Or if you’re ready to get started, schedule your free medical consultation today.
