Is It Safe To Drive After A Concussion?

Flying with a recent brain injury, even a mild one like a concussion, can be potentially dangerous due to the development of a brain hemorrhage. Texas Children’s Hospital recommends refraining from driving for at least 24 to 48 hours after a concussion. Driving an automobile has inherent danger, and driving after mild traumatic brain injury (mTBI)/sports-related concussion (SRC) can make this task even more hazardous.

Recovering from a concussion is crucial, as it affects the skills needed to drive safely. It is unsafe to drive for at least 24 hours after the injury. To protect yourself and others on the road, it is recommended that you let someone else do the driving and let your brain rest. Once you reach your destination, find a quiet, non-distracting environment as soon as possible to rest and recharge your brain.

Concussion patients often feel that driving immediately after a concussion is very unsafe, but the majority did not refrain from driving at any point following their concussion. Some doctors will advise against long-haul travel within the first few days or weeks after injury. Studies suggest that one should not attempt to drive within the first 24 hours after suffering a concussion, but because a concussion affects vision, concentration, and reactions, most doctors recommend waiting at least 24-48 hours before driving.

Disability in driving may continue when people with a concussion have returned to driving, and memory, estimation of speed, and reading may continue to be affected. Most medical professionals follow the general rule of no driving in the first 24 to 48 hours after a concussion. Flying with post-concussion symptoms can be extremely uncomfortable, but is usually safe.

Operating a motor vehicle after sustaining a concussion is a dangerous activity not only for the teen driver but also for the individuals on the road.

Can you travel with a head injury?

A concussion is a minor traumatic brain injury that usually resolves within 10 days. Flying is usually safe in such cases, but if symptoms persist or worsen, or if there is a skull fracture or brain bleeding, it should be avoided as it may result in a hemorrhagic stroke or brain cell death. Concussions are the most common type of traumatic brain injury (mTBI) and are considered functional brain injuries, damaging brain cells, tissues, nerves, and blood vessels, disrupting proper cerebral function. Symptoms typically include headaches, balance and coordination difficulties, memory and concentration issues.

Is it OK to move around with a concussion?

After a head injury or concussion, it is best to wait until you feel better before returning to normal activities. Always seek medical attention for a head injury, as there is no specific treatment for mild injuries. The brain may take time to recover, causing headaches, dizziness, and mild cognitive problems. It is advised not to work, school, or resume sports activity until you have fully recovered.

What not to do when you have a concussion?

During the acute symptomatic phase of concussion recovery, activities that worsen symptoms, such as thinking, physical activity, and exposure to bright lights, loud sounds, and movement, should be avoided or limited. Screen time during recovery should be limited. Medications that increase bleeding risk, such as aspirin, ibuprofen, and naproxen sodium, should be avoided during the first 24 hours. Acetaminophen can be used for pain relief during the first 24 hours, but ibuprofen and naproxen sodium are generally more effective and safe. Prescription medications may be helpful for nausea and vomiting. Restful sleep is crucial for recovery, and discussing sleep behavior techniques with a doctor can provide further recommendations.

Can I drive if I hit my head?

The determination of an appropriate driving limit should be based on the severity of the brain injury and the presence of any disabling symptoms. It is recommended that individuals refrain from driving until they have recovered from these symptoms.

Is walking OK with a concussion?

After a concussion, it is common to feel fatigued, which signals the brain to rest for healing. However, complete bed rest can be counterproductive and does more harm than good. It is recommended to return to everyday activities, including walking, as soon as possible. Listen to your symptoms and only do what you can handle without increasing them. Doing small bursts of activity throughout the day with rest breaks (pacing) will help you feel better more quickly.

The walking program guidelines are designed to be a day-long process. If symptoms increase, go back to the previous stage the following day and progress as tolerated. The program includes 24 hours of very few or no symptoms, 10 minutes of easy walking, and 15 minutes of walking in a busy environment. Each day, add 5 minutes of walking until your PT evaluation, where you will be guided through a more intense increase in activity to get you back to your desired level of exercise.

What activities are OK with a concussion?

For the first few days after a concussion, limit physical activities and those that require concentration, such as schoolwork. Relax at home and sleep if needed. Engage in calm activities like talking to family and friends, reading, drawing, or playing a quiet game. Avoid screen time for the first two days. If symptoms worsen, take a break from the activity and try again later or with a less intense version.

In a day or two, gradually increase activity levels, except for sports and activities that could lead to another concussion. If symptoms worsen, take a break from the activity and try a less intense version later. Stay out of sports and activities that could lead to head injury until symptoms are completely gone and cleared by a healthcare provider. Repeated concussions can have long-lasting, serious effects on the brain.

Is it safe to travel with a mild concussion?

After a concussion, it is generally safe to fly due to the intense visual and auditory stimulation, time-sensitive decision-making, stress, and confusion that air travel can bring. Overstimulation and overwhelm can make airports unpleasant, and it is important to consider the injury’s severity, whether it was recent, traumatic, or post-concussion syndrome. The severity of the injury and the potential for post-concussion syndrome can also influence the safety of flying. Therefore, it is crucial to consider the injury’s severity and the appropriate precautions to take if flying after a concussion.

Can you travel in a car with a concussion?

Medical professionals generally advise against driving within 24 to 48 hours after a concussion. However, this rule may not apply to everyone, and it is crucial to avoid driving if you have trouble turning your head, are triggered by bright lights, or if symptoms worsen or are triggered by driving. Waiting until your doctor has cleared you for driving is essential for your safety and the safety of others on the road.

Driving while experiencing concussion symptoms increases the risk of causing an accident, as hitting your head twice during recovery can turn a mild concussion into a more severe head injury. Additionally, driving while advised by your doctor may lead to legal consequences, as impaired driving is illegal in Kentucky.

Can you go on rides with a concussion?

To help a child recover from a concussion, it is essential to get plenty of sleep at night and rest during the day. Avoid physically demanding activities that can worsen symptoms and slow recovery. Avoid contact or recreational sports that could lead to another concussion. Return to normal activities gradually, not all at once. Consult with your healthcare professional about when you can return to work and discuss how you can help your employer understand what has happened. Consider working half-days or changing your work activities or schedule until you recover.

Take only approved drugs and avoid drinking alcoholic beverages until your health care professional says you are well enough. Write down difficult memories and try to do one task at a time, such as not watching TV while fixing dinner. Consult with family members or close friends when making important decisions. Do not neglect your basic needs, such as eating well and getting enough rest.

Parents and caregivers of children who have had a concussion can also help by taking an active role in their recovery. Encourage the child to get plenty of rest, maintain a regular sleep schedule, avoid high-risk activities, and give them approved drugs. Discuss with their healthcare professional about when the child should return to school and other activities and how they can help them deal with challenges.

Sharing information about the concussion with parents, siblings, teachers, counselors, babysitters, coaches, and others who interact with the child helps them understand what has happened and how to meet the child’s needs.