Expert concussion treatment

Proper concussion treatment is vital to avoiding life-altering complications. The experienced concussion specialists at Advocate Health Care will develop a personalized plan based on your specific needs. We then use the most advanced technology and treatment techniques to get you back to normal activity as quickly and safely as possible.

To schedule an appointment, call 800-3-ADVOCATE or find a doctor online.

Your concussion treatments may include:

Physical rest: Physical activity can stimulate the heart rate and increase blood flow to the brain, which can exacerbate concussion symptoms or cause them to re-occur.

Cognitive rest: Activities that require concentration and focus, including working or reading, can intensify or increase symptoms. Your screen time, which includes watching TV, playing video games or using cell phones and computers, can have similar effects because of visual stimulation.

Social rest: Attending sporting events, spending time with friends or going to restaurants may intensify or increase symptoms and hinder healing.

Sleep: The brain heals when you sleep, and getting enough of it will help your treatment.

Diet recommendations: Your physician may remind you to drink plenty of water, eat regularly and avoid skipping meals. You should also go without alcohol and recreational drugs.

Medication: Over-the-counter acetaminophen (Tylenol) may be recommended for headaches. Other medications may be prescribed if your symptoms are severe or prolonged.

Other advice: You may be instructed not to drive or operate heavy machinery until medically cleared.

Specialized services: If your symptoms are moderate to severe, you may receive specialized concussion treatments, including:

• Baseline neurocognitive screenings for student athletes
• Coordination with schools, athletic trainers and coaches
• Post-injury neurocognitive diagnostics
• Comprehensive neuropsychological assessments
• Return to play, academics, work progressions

Importance of following your plan

Following your individualized treatment plan will allow you to smoothly progress back to work, school and/or athletics. That can take weeks or months and often requires a doctor’s approval. To avoid complications that could be life-altering or even life-threatening, it's important to be patient.

Hospital vs. home treatment: Because concussion treatment at Advocate caters to each person’s case, the location of your care will depend on the severity of your injury. No matter where your treatment takes place, our specialists can help you get back to your normal activity levels in the quickest and safest ways possible.