How to Ease Irritation and Overstimulation After a Concussion

After a concussion, many people experience irritation and overstimulation, which can make recovery challenging. To ease these symptoms, it is important to create a calm environment and manage sensory input carefully. Reducing exposure to bright lights, loud noises, and constant digital screens helps prevent overwhelming the brain’s sensory pathways. Taking regular breaks from activities that require intense focus or cause fatigue supports healing and reduces irritability.

Engaging in gentle physical activity, such as short walks or light stretching, can improve blood flow and brain function without causing additional strain. Mind-body practices like deep breathing, meditation, or mindfulness exercises help regulate the nervous system and calm emotional responses. These techniques support the autonomic nervous system, shifting the body away from a fight-or-flight state that often accompanies overstimulation.

Neurofeedback and brain mapping therapies offer promising ways to retrain brain activity after concussion. These approaches target dysregulated brainwave patterns that contribute to symptoms like irritability and difficulty concentrating. By restoring balance in brain networks, neurofeedback can reduce headaches, mood swings, and sensory sensitivity over time.

It is also helpful to maintain a consistent sleep schedule and ensure good hydration and nutrition, as these factors support overall brain recovery. Avoiding multitasking and simplifying daily routines can prevent cognitive overload. When symptoms persist or worsen, consulting a healthcare professional experienced in concussion management is important to tailor treatment and explore therapies such as cognitive-motor drills or eye-movement exercises that improve brain integration.

Sources
https://balanceatlanta.com/braincore-therapy-post-concussion/
https://www.healmyconcussion.com/blog
https://chicagoneuro.com/a-calmer-mind-without-medication/
https://regainrehab.com/7-signs-post-concussion-syndrome-symptoms/
https://smart.dhgate.com/effective-recovery-timelines-understanding-how-long-it-really-takes-for-a-concussion-to-heal/
https://alignhealth.ae/understanding-concussions-the-first-step-toward-safe-sports-recovery/