Head Injury (Adult)

This is in addition to any specific advice given to you by the ambulance crew you saw today

You should:

• Stay within easy reach of help and near to a telephone for the first 24h-48 hours, make sure there is someone nearby who has read and understood this advice.
• Have plenty of rest and avoid stressful situations.

You should avoid

• Taking any alcohol or drugs, sedatives or tranquillisers (unless they are given by a doctor).
• Contact sports (including rugby and football) for at least three weeks; the person should talk to their doctor first.
• Returning to normal activity until you are completely recovered.
• Driving or operating machinery, unless you are completely recovered.

If you have any of the following you or the person caring for you should call an ambulance immediately on 999

• A change in consciousness or new confusion.
• Fluid leaks from the ear or nose.
• Feeling drowsy when you would normally be awake.
• Problems with understanding or speaking, loss of balance or problems walking, or weakness in one or both arms or legs.
• New problems with eyesight, shortly after injury.
• A worsening headache.
• Vomiting or Seizures.
• Loss of hearing in one or both ears.

Common Side Effects

• It is common to feel nauseous (sick) after a head injury, but being sick (vomiting) is a concern.
• A mild headache again is common and is normally treated by simple Paracetamol (following instructions on the packet, on how much and how often).
• Difficulty concentrating or feeling tired – these symptoms should disappear over the next two weeks.
• If these symptoms continue or worsen, in the first instance contact your own GP or 111.

Taking Anti coagulation therapy

If you are taking Warfarin or other oral anticoagulants (blood thinners) you are at higher risk of sudden or delayed bleeding – please contact your GP or 111 for advice. In a life-threatening emergency always dial 999 for an ambulance.

Patient advice leaflet: Reviewed June 2023