Board of Certification for the Athletic Trainer (BOC) 2025 – 400 Free Practice Questions to Pass the Exam

A headache is a widely recognized sign of a concussion and plays a significant role in the assessment of such injuries. When someone experiences a concussion, which is a type of traumatic brain injury, the brain undergoes a complex series of physiological changes that can lead to various symptoms. Headaches specifically occur due to the disturbance in brain function and may be related to inflammation or changes in blood flow.

While nausea, initial fainting, and sweaty palms can occur with concussions, they are not as commonly emphasized as hallmark signs when diagnosing a concussion compared to headaches. Headaches may vary in intensity and can sometimes resemble migraines, making them a critical symptom for athletic trainers and healthcare providers to evaluate during assessments. Understanding this symptom also aids in proper management and treatment protocols for athletes who may have sustained a concussion.