If your symptoms and problems persist and begin to affect your daily functioning, you should talk with your family doctor. Your doctor can tell you if you need a referral to another specialist or health care professional (i.e., neurologist, physiatrist, audio-vestibular therapist, ophthalmologist, occupational therapist, physiotherapist, chiropractor, massage therapist, counsellor, or psychologist).

If your symptoms don’t get better over time as expected, there could be other things slowing your healing. These things could include problems with pain, sleep, depression, or anxiety. These issues alone, or in combination, can cause symptoms similar to a concussion and can make your recovery time longer.

The symptoms and challenges related to a concussion can certainly impact your day-to-day functioning. However, it is important to remember that these symptoms are usually temporary and that most people who have a concussion completely recover with time. One of the best ways you can help yourself during recovery is to learn how to manage your symptoms well.

For more information:

If you think you may have a concussion, it is very important you see a health care provider right away (family doctor, nurse practitioner).

If you live in Southern Alberta, please call The Calgary Brain Injury Program at 403-944-8571 or send an email to cbip@ahs.ca

If you live in Northern Alberta, The Brain Care Center can guide you to the appropriate resources. Contact them at 1-800-425-5552