Can you drink if you have a concussion? Drinking alcohol after sustaining a concussion can have harmful effects on your recovery process. This is because alcohol affects the brain in ways that can worsen concussion symptoms and delay healing. Alcohol acts as a depressant on the central nervous system, which can lead to drowsiness and impaired coordination. These are symptoms that are already commonly associated with concussions, so drinking alcohol can exacerbate them and make it difficult to differentiate between the effects of the concussion and those of alcohol.
If it is difficult for you to stop drinking after a concussion, that may be a sign of a larger issue with alcohol use. It is important to seek help and support if you find yourself struggling to abstain from alcohol during your recovery period. Contact Washburn House at 855.298.3104 to learn how our compassionate alcohol addiction treatment can help.
What Is a Concussion?
A concussion is a type of traumatic brain injury that affects your brain function. Effects are usually temporary but can include headaches and problems with concentration, balance, memory, and coordination. Concussions are usually caused by a blow to the head. Violently shaking the head and upper body also can cause concussions.
Alcohol can also interfere with the body’s natural healing processes, as it can disrupt sleep patterns and cause dehydration. Adequate rest and hydration are crucial for proper healing after a concussion, so drinking alcohol may hinder this process.
Can I Drink if I Have a Concussion?
Can I drink if I have a concussion? Alcohol and concussions should not go together. Drinking alcohol after a concussion can be harmful. Alcohol is a neurotoxin, which means it can poison your brain and nervous system. When you have a concussion, your brain is more vulnerable to the harmful effects of alcohol.
Drinking alcohol can slow down the healing process and prolong the symptoms of a concussion. It can also increase the risk of further injury, as alcohol can impair balance and coordination, making falls and accidents more likely.
Moreover, alcohol and concussion share common symptoms such as impaired memory, decreased attention span, and slowed reaction times. Drinking alcohol when you have a concussion can intensify these symptoms, making them more severe and longer-lasting. Alcohol can also increase the risk of further injury after a concussion. The impaired coordination and drowsiness caused by alcohol can make it more likely for an individual to experience accidents or falls, which could lead to additional head injuries.
Signs of a Concussion
If you have had a head injury, it is important to watch for signs of a concussion. These may include:
- Headache or pressure in the head
- Temporary loss of consciousness
- Confusion or feeling as if in a fog
- Dizziness or “seeing stars”
- Ringing in the ears
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Slurred speech
- Delayed response to questions
- Fatigue
If you notice any of these symptoms following a head injury, seek medical attention immediately.
Signs You Need Alcohol Addiction Treatment
If you find yourself turning to alcohol frequently, even when you know it could be harmful to your health, like after suffering a concussion, it could be a sign of alcohol addiction. Other signs that you might need alcohol addiction treatment include:
- You cannot control how much you drink
- You feel a strong craving to drink
- You continue to drink despite the negative consequences
- You neglect your responsibilities at home or work because of your drinking
- You spend a lot of time drinking and recovering from drinking
- You have withdrawal symptoms when you try to stop drinking
If you recognize any of these signs in yourself, consider seeking help.
Call Washburn House Now
If you recognize the signs of alcohol addiction in yourself, it is time to seek help. At Washburn House, we provide comprehensive treatment for individuals struggling with alcohol addiction. Contact us at 855.298.3104 today. Remember, recognizing the problem is the first step toward recovery. Reach out to Washburn House today, and let us guide you on your journey towards a healthier tomorrow.