What is the recommended initial management for concussion?

What is the recommended initial management for concussion?

• A. Imaging CT immediately
• B. Start graded return-to-play immediately
• C. Complete physical and cognitive rest until symptoms resolve
• D. Medications to alleviate symptoms

Answer: (C)

After a concussion, the safest initial approach is to rest both physically and mentally until symptoms resolve. This means avoiding strenuous activity and limiting mental strain (like heavy school load or screens) so the brain can begin to recover from the metabolic changes caused by the injury. Once symptoms are no longer present at rest, a gradual, supervised return-to-activity plan should be started, advancing only if symptoms do not recur at each step. Imaging with CT isn’t needed for every concussion, only if new red flags or concerning symptoms develop (for example, worsening headaches, vomiting, or focal neurological changes). Starting a graded return-to-play right away isn’t appropriate while symptoms are ongoing, because exertion can prolong symptoms or increase the risk of further injury. Medications may help with specific symptoms, but they don’t replace rest and careful recovery as the primary management strategy.

After a concussion, the safest initial approach is to rest both physically and mentally until symptoms resolve. This means avoiding strenuous activity and limiting mental strain (like heavy school load or screens) so the brain can begin to recover from the metabolic changes caused by the injury. Once symptoms are no longer present at rest, a gradual, supervised return-to-activity plan should be started, advancing only if symptoms do not recur at each step.

Imaging with CT isn’t needed for every concussion, only if new red flags or concerning symptoms develop (for example, worsening headaches, vomiting, or focal neurological changes). Starting a graded return-to-play right away isn’t appropriate while symptoms are ongoing, because exertion can prolong symptoms or increase the risk of further injury. Medications may help with specific symptoms, but they don’t replace rest and careful recovery as the primary management strategy.