Yes, a concussion could potentially cause a fever. Fever after a concussion is called a neurogenic fever. Fever is common with head trauma, with or without brain injury, and it may be due to inflammation.
Mild fever may not necessarily be a cause for concern, but it’s important to monitor it and see how it progresses. If your fever is persistent or worsens, don’t hesitate to contact a doctor.
You may not experience a fever after a concussion, or you may not experience any symptoms immediately afterward.
Symptoms of a concussion tend to be more severe after the injury, or 1 to 2 days after the injury occurred, although it’s important to keep in mind that symptoms can be different for everyone. Your symptoms may not always mirror someone else’s.
Common symptoms of a concussion include:
- confusion
- headache
- double or blurry vision
- dizziness
- imbalance
- nausea
- vomiting
- memory loss
- ringing ears
- difficulty concentrating
- photosensitivity, or sensitivity to light
- loss of taste or smell
- trouble falling asleep
While these are common symptoms of a concussion, they may present differently in a child or a toddler. According to the
- refusing to nurse or eat
- not engaging in play or usual activities
- irritability
- crying more than usual
- behavior changes
- more temper tantrums
- seeming unsteady on their feet
- appearing clumsier or more dazed than usual
If you’re experiencing any of the following symptoms after having a concussion, it’s very important to receive emergency medical attention:
- a headache that worsens or does not go away
- severe nausea and vomiting
- loss of consciousness
- seizures
- symptoms that have worsened over time
- symptoms that haven’t improved after 10 to 14 days
- inability to wake up
- history of multiple concussions
Contact a doctor or healthcare professional if you have any more questions about the symptoms of a concussion and how to spot them.