how long does a concussion last

how long does a concussion last

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Concussion symptoms typically last from a few days to a few weeks, with most people recovering within 7 to 14 days, averaging about 10 days

. However, recovery time varies widely depending on the severity of the concussion, the individual's age, prior head injuries, and other health factors

. In some cases, symptoms can persist for more than 28 days, a condition known as post-concussion syndrome, which may last weeks, months, or even years in rare cases

. Around 20% to 50% of people may experience symptoms lasting three to nine months, especially if they have a history of anxiety, depression, or previous concussions

. Children often take longer to recover than adults, and a small percentage of people experience persistent symptoms beyond the typical recovery period

. Returning to physical or mental activities should be gradual and only after symptoms have fully resolved to avoid complications such as second-impact syndrome, which is potentially fatal if a second concussion occurs before full recovery

. In summary:

  • Most concussions resolve within 1 to 2 weeks
  • Some symptoms can last several weeks to a month or more
  • Post-concussion syndrome can cause symptoms lasting months or longer in a minority of cases
  • Full recovery requires careful management and gradual return to activities

If symptoms worsen or persist beyond a few weeks, medical evaluation is recommended to rule out complications and guide treatment

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