Head Injury Treatment

Overview

Treatment for a head injury depends on the type and severity of the injury. NINDS explains that some people with a mild TBI such as a concussion may need no treatment beyond rest and over-the-counter pain relievers, while people with a severe TBI may need emergency care, surgery and rehabilitation from a multidisciplinary team.[1]

Mild TBI and concussion

According to NINDS, treatment for mild TBI focuses on symptom relief, and people should return to daily activities gradually.[1] The 2023 international consensus statement on sport concussion recommends relative rest for about the first two days, followed by a gradual increase in activity.[2]

Medications

NINDS lists medications that may be used to treat TBI symptoms:[1]

  • Over-the-counter or prescription pain medicines
  • Anticonvulsants to treat seizures
  • Anticoagulants to prevent blood clots
  • Diuretics to reduce fluid buildup and pressure in the brain
  • Stimulants to increase alertness
  • Antidepressants and anti-anxiety medications

Severe TBI

NINDS states that immediate treatment for severe TBI focuses on preventing death, stabilizing vital organ functions, ensuring breathing and oxygen delivery, controlling blood pressure and preventing further brain damage.[1] Surgery may be needed to relieve pressure inside the skull, remove hematomas or damaged tissue, or repair skull fractures.[1]

Rehabilitation

NINDS notes that once injuries are stabilized, people with severe TBI are often transferred to a rehabilitation center, where a team that may include neurologists, nurses, psychologists, nutritionists, and physical, occupational, vocational, speech and respiratory therapists helps with recovery.[1] Therapy aims to improve daily living skills and address cognitive, physical, occupational and emotional difficulties, on a short- or long-term basis.[1]

Treatment topics

This page provides general information from the sources listed below. It is not medical advice and is not a substitute for evaluation by a qualified healthcare provider. In an emergency, call 911.

Sources

  1. National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke. “Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI).” https://www.ninds.nih.gov/health-information/disorders/traumatic-brain-injury-tbi
  2. Patricios JS, et al. “Consensus statement on concussion in sport: the 6th International Conference on Concussion in Sport–Amsterdam, October 2022.” British Journal of Sports Medicine, 2023. https://bjsm.bmj.com/content/57/11/695

Sources last checked: October 11, 2026

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