Short answer: It’s generally best to avoid alcohol after a concussion until you’re fully recovered, and you should consult with a healthcare professional about your specific situation. Details and guidance

• Why avoid alcohol: Alcohol is a central nervous system depressant and a neurotoxin that can worsen concussion symptoms (headache, dizziness, confusion, fatigue) and may slow healing. It can also mask warning signs that indicate a need for urgent medical evaluation. These concerns are echoed by multiple medical sources and concussion guidelines.

• When you might consider resuming: There is limited high-quality evidence about the exact timing for safely resuming alcohol after a concussion, and recommendations emphasize waiting until all concussion symptoms have resolved and you have clearance from a healthcare professional. Even after the acute phase, approach with caution and start with very small amounts if a clinician approves.

• Special considerations:
  • Post-concussion syndrome: If symptoms persist for weeks to months, abstaining from alcohol is usually advised to avoid prolonging symptoms or triggering flares.

* Medication interactions: Some post-concussion medications (pain relievers, anti-nausea meds) can interact negatively with alcohol; discuss with your clinician.

* Safety and injuries: Alcohol can impair balance and judgment, increasing the risk of another head injury during recovery.

• What to do now:
  • Avoid alcohol until you’re symptom-free and have clearance from a health professional.
  • If you’re on other medications or have underlying conditions, seek tailored advice.
  • If symptoms worsen after drinking or you notice new red-flag signs (repeated vomiting, confusion, worsening headache, weakness, new neurological symptoms), seek urgent medical care.

If you’d like, I can tailor this to your situation (age, symptoms, time since injury, medications) and help you prepare questions to ask your clinician.