What Are You Not Allowed to Do with a Concussion?

What Are You Not Allowed to Do with a Concussion?

A concussion is a mild traumatic brain injury that temporarily affects the way your brain works. While the word “mild” may sound reassuring, concussions are serious and require careful management to ensure a full and safe recovery. One of the most important parts of concussion care is knowing what you should not do while your brain is healing. Certain activities can worsen your symptoms, delay your recovery, or even put you at risk for more severe injury. Here’s an in-depth look at what you are not allowed to do with a concussion, based on current medical guidelines and expert advice.

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1. No Activities That Risk Another Head Injury

The most critical rule after a concussion is to avoid any situation where you could sustain another blow to the head. Suffering a second concussion before you have fully recovered from the first can lead to a dangerous condition called Second Impact Syndrome. This rare but potentially fatal complication causes rapid and severe brain swelling. For this reason, you must not:

• Participate in contact sports (football, hockey, rugby, lacrosse, martial arts, etc.)

• Engage in high-risk recreational activities (skateboarding, skiing, snowboarding, climbing, or cycling without a helmet)

• Do any job or task that puts you at risk for falls or head injury (construction, roofing, warehouse work, etc.)

You should only return to these activities after you have been cleared by a healthcare professional who is experienced in concussion management.

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2. No Driving or Operating Heavy Machinery

Driving is a complex activity that demands quick thinking, good judgment, and fast reflexes. After a concussion, your reaction time, concentration, and decision-making abilities may be impaired—even if you feel “okay.” For your safety and the safety of others, you should not:

• Drive any vehicle (car, motorcycle, ATV, scooter, etc.)

• Operate heavy machinery (forklifts, tractors, industrial equipment)

• Ride a bicycle or electric scooter in traffic

Most doctors recommend avoiding driving or similar activities for at least 24–48 hours after a concussion, and longer if you still have symptoms. Always get medical clearance before getting back behind the wheel.

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3. No Intense Physical Activity or Exercise

Physical exertion can worsen concussion symptoms and delay your recovery. In the first few days after your injury, you should avoid:

• Running, jogging, or aerobic workouts

• Weightlifting and strenuous gym routines

• Team practices, drills, or scrimmages—even if they are non-contact

• Any activity that makes your symptoms worse (headache, dizziness, nausea, confusion)

As your symptoms improve, your doctor may recommend a gradual, stepwise return to physical activity. Always follow their instructions and stop if symptoms return.

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4. No Cognitive Overload

Your brain needs rest to heal. Activities that require a lot of thinking, concentration, or mental effort can make your symptoms worse and slow your recovery. You should avoid:

• Reading or studying for long periods

• Doing homework, taking exams, or working on complex projects

• Playing challenging board games or puzzles

• Multitasking or working under pressure

If you are a student or have a demanding job, you may need accommodations such as shorter school days, extra breaks, or lighter workloads until you can tolerate more cognitive activity without symptoms.

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5. No Excessive Screen Time

Screens can aggravate symptoms like headaches, dizziness, and trouble concentrating. For at least the first 24–48 hours—and sometimes longer if symptoms persist—you should limit:

• Watching TV or movies

• Using computers, tablets, or smartphones

• Playing video games

• Texting or spending long periods on social media

When you do start using screens again, take frequent breaks and stop if your symptoms get worse.

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6. No Alcohol, Caffeine, or Non-Prescription Drugs

Alcohol and caffeine can interfere with your brain’s recovery and make symptoms worse. They can also mask the effects of a concussion, making it harder to know if you are getting better or worse. You should not:

• Drink alcohol in any amount

• Consume large amounts of caffeine (coffee, energy drinks, sodas)

• Use recreational drugs or any medication not prescribed by your doctor

If you need medication for pain or sleep, talk to your healthcare provider about safe options.

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7. No Returning to Sports or Full Activity Without Clearance

Even if you start to feel better, you must not return to sports or full physical activity until you have been cleared by a healthcare professional. Returning too soon puts you at risk for another concussion or more serious injury. Most concussion protocols require a stepwise return-to-play process, with each step monitored for symptoms. If any symptoms return, you must stop and go back to the previous step.

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8. No Ignoring Symptoms or “Pushing Through”

One of the most dangerous things you can do after a concussion is to ignore your symptoms or try to “tough it out.” If you have headaches, dizziness, confusion, memory problems, or any other symptoms, you must rest and avoid activities that make them worse. If your symptoms get worse or don’t improve within a few weeks, seek medical attention.

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Quick Reference Table: What to Avoid After a Concussion

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Conclusion

A concussion is a brain injury that needs time and care to heal. By avoiding activities that could worsen your symptoms or put you at risk for another injury, you give your brain the best chance to recover fully. Always follow your healthcare provider’s advice and never rush back to normal activities, sports, or work before you are truly ready. Your brain’s health is worth the wait.