Alcohol and Concussion: Understanding the Implications and Risks

Concussions and alcohol consumption have a significant relationship when it comes to recovery. While the short-term relief may seem worth the risk, there is ample evidence that shows it hinders and prolongs the recovery process.

This article aims to explore how alcohol affects the healing process, worsens symptoms, and can lead to further complications. Understanding these implications helps you make informed decisions for long and short-term recovery from concussions. 

The Effects of Alcohol on Concussion Recovery

In short, you should avoid alcohol during your recovery. It slows healing, increases inflammation, affects blood flow, and generally makes it harder for the concussion to heal naturally. The list below details all the ways in which alcohol can affect concussion recovery. 

1. Impaired Healing

Alcohol, when consumed after a concussion, can significantly impede the brain’s natural healing process. This interference occurs due to the neurotoxic effects of alcohol, which can disrupt the intricate and delicate mechanisms involved in tissue repair and regeneration within the brain.

Alcohol hinders the brain’s healing process after a concussion because of its neurotoxic properties. It can damage neurons and other brain cells, leading to impaired function and disrupted neural communication. This neurotoxicity exacerbates the impact of the initial concussion and impairs the brain’s ability to repair and regenerate damaged tissue.

2. Increased Inflammation

Concussions trigger an inflammatory response in the brain as part of the healing process. Alcohol consumption can exacerbate inflammation, leading to prolonged recovery time and increased symptoms. In addition, alcohol also affects the function of the stomach, which is the primary site of serotonin production.

3. Blood Flow Impairment

Alcohol can affect blood vessels, leading to vasoconstriction (narrowing of blood vessels) or vasodilation (widening of blood vessels). Both vasoconstriction and vasodilation can impact blood flow to the brain, potentially hindering the delivery of oxygen and nutrients necessary for healing.

4. Interference with Neurotransmitters

Alcohol influences the production of specific neurotransmitters in the brain, including serotonin, dopamine, and gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA). Disturbances in these neurotransmitters can disrupt mood regulation, sleep/wake cycles, cognitive function, and overall recovery.

Since these are already primary symptoms of concussion, it’s best to avoid alcohol to allow the natural balance of these chemicals to occur. 

5. Reduced Sleep Quality

Alcohol can interfere with sleep patterns, inhibiting the brain’s ability to restore and regenerate during the restorative sleep cycles necessary for recovery. Poor sleep quality can exacerbate concussion symptoms such as headache, fatigue, and cognitive difficulties. 

6. Increased Risk of Secondary Injury

Alcohol impairs judgment, coordination, and reaction times, increasing the risk of accidents and falls. Individuals recovering from concussions are already at a higher risk of further injury due to balance and coordination issues. Alcohol consumption can amplify this risk, potentially causing new injuries or worsening the initial concussion.

7. Impact on Medications

If a healthcare provider prescribes medications to manage specific concussion symptoms, alcohol consumption may interfere with their effectiveness. Alcohol can interact negatively with certain medications, potentially hindering the recovery process.

8. Exacerbation of Psychological Symptoms

Concussions can lead to emotional and psychological changes such as irritability, anxiety, and depression. Alcohol is a depressant and can worsen these symptoms, affecting an individual’s overall well-being and impeding recovery.

It is important to note that every individual may react differently to alcohol, and the severity of the concussion can also impact the body’s response. Regardless, minimizing alcohol consumption during the recovery period is generally recommended to optimize healing and reduce the risk of complications.

Managing Alcohol Consumption After a Concussion

To ensure optimal recovery, it is advisable to abstain from alcohol during the healing process. Here are some key recommendations:

1. Rest

Adequate rest is essential for the brain to heal. This includes physical and cognitive rest and avoiding activities that can exacerbate symptoms or put undue stress on the brain. Follow your healthcare provider’s guidance regarding the duration and intensity of rest needed. Be careful not to rest for longer than your healthcare provider suggests. 

2. Gradual Return to Activity

Once symptoms begin to improve, gradually reintroduce activities and exertion levels under the guidance of a healthcare professional. This may include increasing physical activity, cognitive tasks, and screen time. Advancing too quickly may prolong recovery or lead to symptom recurrence.

The Buffalo Concussion Treadmill Test is a best practice for gauging when you can return to more vigorous activities.

3. Supportive Environment

To promote healing, create a quiet, calm, and well-organized space. Minimize noise, bright lights, and other stimuli that trigger symptoms or increase discomfort. Support groups, family education, and community resources are also a great way to minimize the emotional stress of concussion recovery. 

4. Hydration and Nutrition

Ensure adequate hydration and maintain a balanced diet including nutrients that support brain health. Your diet should include omega-3 fatty acids, antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals. Avoid excessive caffeine, as it can disrupt sleep patterns.

5. Sleep Hygiene

Prioritize restful sleep and establish a consistent sleep routine. Practice good sleep hygiene by avoiding screens before bedtime, maintaining a comfortable sleep environment, and implementing relaxation techniques if needed.

6. Stress Reduction

Manage stress levels through techniques such as mindfulness, deep breathing exercises, meditation, or gentle physical activities, and vagal nerve stimulation. Stress can exacerbate symptoms and hinder recovery.

7. Rehabilitation Exercises

Use specific exercises and therapies prescribed by healthcare professionals, such as vestibular or vision therapy, to address balance, coordination, or visual disturbances that may result from the concussion.

8. Limit Screen Time

Excessive screen time, including time spent on computers, TVs, smartphones, and video games, can strain the brain and worsen symptoms. Limit screen use and take frequent breaks to prevent symptom exacerbation.

9. Seek Professional Guidance

Work closely with a healthcare provider experienced in concussion management. They can provide personalized care, track your progress, and advise on specific strategies to facilitate a faster recovery.

Remember, every concussion is unique, and recovery times can vary. Listening to your body, respecting your limits, and consulting with a healthcare professional throughout the recovery process is vital. Pushing too hard or returning to activities too soon can delay healing and increase the risk of further injury or complications.

Conclusion

Although alcohol is often part of social activities for many people, it’s essential to understand the potential risks when consumed during concussion recovery. Alcohol can slow down the healing process, make symptoms worse, and extend recovery time.

Focus on resting, staying hydrated, and following your healthcare provider’s advice. Concussions are hard enough without obstacles. Making informed decisions about best practices will increase your chances of a fast, full recovery. 

If you or a loved one is struggling with the after-effects of a concussion, click here to set up a call with one of the doctors at The Neural Connection.

Check out the testimonial from Tyler about his child’s improvements in their post-concussion symptoms:

*Note: The information provided in this article is for educational purposes only and does not constitute a doctor-patient relationship. Patients are advised to consult their medical provider or primary care physician before trying any therapies at home.