What is a concussion?

A concussion is a mild head injury that temporarily affects how your brain works.

It can be caused by:

  • A direct hit to the head, or
  • A hit to another part of the body that causes the head to move suddenly or forcefully

You do not need to lose consciousness to have a concussion.

Persisting symptoms after concussion

For most people, concussion symptoms:

  • Appear within hours of the injury
  • Improve within 10–14 days for adults
  • Improve within four weeks for children and adolescents

However, for around 15–20% of people, symptoms last longer. This is known as persisting concussion symptoms.

A longer recovery does not mean a more serious injury. It may simply mean you need extra support to return to your usual activities, such as work, study, sport or daily life.

Common concussion symptoms

Symptoms can vary from person to person and may include:

  • Difficulty concentrating or remembering
  • Headaches
  • Dizziness or balance problems
  • Feeling tired or fatigued
  • Nausea or vomiting (often related to dizziness)
  • Feeling slowed down or foggy
  • Sensitivity to light or noise
  • Sleep difficulties
  • Changes in mood, such as irritability, anxiety or low mood
  • Vision problems such as blurred vision or eye strain

About the Epworth Concussion Clinic

At your appointment, you will be assessed by a Rehabilitation Physician who specialises in concussion care.

You may also receive care from a range of allied health professionals, including:

  • Psychology
  • Physiotherapy
  • Occupational therapy

Where needed, referrals may also be made to:

  • Exercise physiology
  • Speech pathology
  • Dietetics

Your rehabilitation program combines evidence based education and treatment to support your personal goals, such as returning to work, study, sport or social activities.

Clinic details

Program type: Outpatient consultation

Available at:

  • Epworth Hawthorn
  • Epworth Geelong

Referrals to rehabilitation services

Online referral form and contact details for Epworth rehabilitation services

Referrals can be made using the online referral form for Epworth Rehabilitation Services.

Please ensure referrals include the following information. If details are missing, our Administration team will contact the referrer before the referral can be reviewed.

Required information:

  • Date of injury
  • How the injury occurred (for example, a fall from standing height)
  • Emergency Department or inpatient discharge summary (if applicable)
  • Any relevant CT or MRI imaging reports

If you have had a concussion in the last four weeks, download our Concussion Management flyer.

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