Home care hinges on physical rest, cognitive pacing, and avoiding medications that impair normal blood clotting. Over-the-counter pain management requires caution. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as ibuprofen, naproxen, and aspirin inhibit platelet aggregation, which can worsen an active subcutaneous or intracranial bleed. Acetaminophen remains the safer initial analgesic during the foundational 48-hour monitoring window.
Old medical advice mandated waking concussed patients every hour throughout the night. Current neurological protocols discourage this practice because sleep is essential for metabolic brain recovery. If an injured individual can hold a coherent conversation, exhibits equal pupils, and shows no red-flag symptoms before bedtime, let them rest. Wake them once or twice during the night simply to verify that they awaken normally, recognize their surroundings, and speak clearly without confusion.
