Which of the following is a typical sign of a concussion?

• A. Fever
• B. Rash
• C. Shortness of breath
• D. Headache

Answer: (D)

A concussion is a mild brain injury that often shows up with a headache. After a blow to the head, the brain can become irritated and the surrounding tissues may react with pain, making a headache a common early sign. Fever, rash, and shortness of breath point to infections, skin issues, or breathing problems, not the brain injury pattern you’d expect with a concussion. In practice, if a head injury occurs and a headache appears, along with possible confusion, dizziness, or nausea, that combination should be taken seriously. Stop activity, monitor symptoms, and seek medical evaluation if symptoms worsen or new red flags appear, such as loss of consciousness, repeated vomiting, severe or increasing headache, confusion, or weakness.