A concussion, or mild traumatic brain injury (mTBI), results from a bump, blow, or jolt to the head or body that causes the brain to move rapidly within the skull, leading to temporary changes in brain function. While often called “mild,” concussions can be serious, affecting memory, judgment, and coordination. Reading, a seemingly simple activity, can be challenging and counterproductive during recovery.
How Concussions Affect Reading Ability
Concussions impair the complex cognitive and visual processes involved in reading. Disruptions to normal cellular processes lead to metabolic and physiological disturbances that interfere with reading.
Visual processing issues are common after a concussion, making it difficult for eyes to work together. Symptoms include blurry or double vision, light sensitivity, and difficulty controlling eye movements. These disturbances hinder focus, line tracking, and visual stability, leading to eye strain and headaches.
The injured brain often operates with reduced energy efficiency, leading to rapid cognitive fatigue. Reading demands sustained concentration and mental effort, which quickly depletes this limited energy reserve. Even short periods of reading can overwhelm the brain, causing exhaustion and making it harder to process information.
Concussions frequently cause headaches and dizziness, and reading can worsen these symptoms. Staring at a page or screen, especially for extended periods, can intensify existing headaches or trigger new ones, and exacerbate feelings of dizziness or imbalance. This physical discomfort can make reading unbearable and hinder recovery.
A concussion can slow information processing speed and reduce comprehension. The brain struggles to absorb, understand, and retain written information, leading to frustration and mental fogginess. This means even if words are physically read, their meaning may not be grasped or remembered.
Recognizing When Reading is Detrimental
Recognizing signs that reading overexerts the brain and hinders recovery is important. Continuing to read when symptoms worsen can prolong healing. Pay close attention to your body’s response to reading activities.
One clear indicator is the worsening of physical symptoms while reading. This includes an increase in headache pain or pressure, nausea, or dizziness. You might also notice heightened sensitivity to light or sound, or a general feeling of being “off” or “in a fog.” These are signals that your brain is being overstimulated and needs rest.
Visual symptoms often intensify with reading if it is detrimental. Blurred vision, double vision, or difficulty tracking lines of text may become more pronounced. Your eyes might feel unusually tired or sore, or you may find yourself struggling to maintain focus on the words. These visual signs suggest that the visual system is under strain.
Emotional and cognitive changes can also signal that reading is too much. You might experience increased irritability, frustration, or feel overwhelmed by the task. Difficulty concentrating or remembering what you just read are also strong indicators that your brain is struggling and needs a break. Ignoring these warning signs can impede your recovery.
Strategies for Returning to Reading
Gradually reintroducing reading activities requires a cautious and structured approach once symptoms have significantly improved. It is important to consult a healthcare professional, such as a doctor or concussion specialist, before attempting to resume reading. They can provide personalized guidance based on your specific recovery progress.
When cleared to begin, start with very short durations, such as 5-10 minutes at a time, and slowly increase as tolerated. Choose simple, non-demanding material like short articles or light fiction, avoiding complex texts or work-related documents initially. Reading in a quiet, dimly lit, and distraction-free environment can also reduce cognitive load.
Frequent breaks are important to allow your brain to rest and recover. Take 5-10 minute breaks after every 15-20 minutes of reading, or sooner if symptoms arise. Always listen to your body and stop immediately if any symptoms worsen or reappear. Pushing through discomfort can set back your recovery.
Be mindful of screen time, as electronic screens can be more taxing on the brain due to blue light emission and the need for scrolling. Approach reading on phones, tablets, or computers with extra caution, limiting duration and increasing breaks. Using larger fonts or adjusting screen brightness can also help.
Recommended Activities During Recovery
During concussion recovery, when reading is not advisable, focusing on physical and cognitive rest is the primary goal. Adequate sleep is particularly beneficial for brain healing and symptom management. Establishing a consistent sleep schedule can support this process.
Engaging in mindful relaxation activities that do not require intense concentration can be helpful. Listening to calming music, practicing light stretching, or simple meditation (if tolerated) can provide mental respite. Resting with eyes closed in a quiet space also allows the brain to conserve energy.
Audio-based activities offer a less visually and cognitively demanding way to engage with content. Listening to audiobooks, podcasts, or radio programs can provide mental stimulation without the strain of reading. This allows for engagement with stories or information while minimizing visual processing demands.
Light, non-screen activities can also contribute to recovery. Gentle walks, if cleared by a doctor, or spending time in a calm outdoor environment can be beneficial. Quiet, non-stimulating conversations with friends or family can also provide social interaction without overtaxing the brain. Avoiding loud noises, bright lights, crowded places, and excessive screen time generally helps prevent symptom exacerbation.