A concussion is a mild traumatic brain injury resulting from a jolt or blow to the head or body that causes the brain to move rapidly within the skull. This sudden movement can lead to chemical changes in the brain and sometimes damage brain cells. Vomiting can be one of the symptoms experienced after a concussion.
Vomiting After Concussion: Timing and Characteristics
Vomiting following a concussion can manifest soon after the injury or be delayed by several hours, sometimes even days. This symptom occurs because the brain’s response to the injury can affect the brainstem, which houses the vomiting center. Increased pressure within the skull, or disruption of balance centers in the brain, can also trigger nausea and vomiting.
While vomiting is a recognized symptom, not everyone who sustains a concussion experiences it. Concussion-related vomiting can vary, from a single episode to repeated occurrences. A single episode of vomiting after a head injury is generally considered less concerning than repeated episodes, particularly if no other severe symptoms are present.
When Vomiting Signals a Medical Emergency
While a single instance of vomiting can occur with a concussion, persistent or projectile vomiting indicates a more serious brain injury, such as intracranial bleeding, and requires immediate medical attention. Repeated vomiting is considered a red flag.
Other severe symptoms that, when accompanied by vomiting, warrant an emergency room visit include:
A headache that worsens over time
Seizures or convulsions
Slurred speech
Weakness or numbness in the arms or legs
Changes in behavior or confusion
Loss of consciousness lasting longer than 30 seconds
Clear fluid draining from the nose or ears
Unequal pupil sizes
These signs may indicate internal bleeding or swelling, requiring prompt medical intervention.
Concussion Management and Recovery
Regardless of whether vomiting occurs, professional medical evaluation is important after a suspected concussion. Initial management involves a period of physical and cognitive rest to allow the brain to heal. This means limiting activities that require significant concentration or physical exertion, such as strenuous exercise, video games, or extensive reading.
After an initial period of rest, a gradual return to daily activities is encouraged, as tolerated. This gradual approach helps prevent the worsening of symptoms and supports brain recovery. The recovery timeline for a concussion ranges from days to weeks, with most adults recovering within two weeks and children within one to three months. Monitoring for any persistent or new symptoms is important throughout the recovery process.