Concussions are one of those injuries that seem invisible: no cast, no stitches, no visible bruising. But beneath the surface, a concussion can disrupt a child\u2019s ability to think, feel and function.<\/p>\n
With youth sports growing more competitive, and with many kids spending a lot of time on scooters and skateboards, I encourage parents to learn to recognize the signs of concussions so they can get help for their kids if they suffer a blow to the head.<\/p>\n
The brain is a soft, delicate organ, floating in cerebrospinal fluid inside a hard, protective skull. A concussion is a traumatic brain injury that occurs when the brain is shaken and crashes into the skull, usually either from a hit to the head or a blow to the body that shakes the brain.<\/a>\u00a0A concussion can affect the way the brain works.<\/p>\n The most common culprits? Sports. Football leads the pack. Kids can also get concussions by playing basketball, soccer, lacrosse or even cheerleading.<\/p>\n Other causes of concussions include:<\/p>\n Most concussion cases in kids<\/a> occur in children ages 8 and older \u2013 the age where many kids start participating in organized sports.<\/p>\n If your child says they got hit in the head, what should you do as a parent? Look for these symptoms of a concussion:<\/p>\n If any of these symptoms appear, reach out to your\u00a0pediatrician\u00a0or visit urgent care right away. If the child is vomiting repeatedly, has unequal pupils or has lost consciousness, go to the emergency room.<\/p>\n Note that while many symptoms of a concussion develop immediately (within 1-2 days), others, such as memory problems, sleep problems and emotional changes, can occur later.<\/p>\n In many cases, doctors can diagnose concussions based on the patient\u2019s history of what happened, a review of symptoms and a physical exam. A head CT is usually reserved for more severe cases, such as when we are concerned about bleeding in the brain or skull fractures.<\/p>\n Ice packs can help with head pain. Talk to the doctor about whether over-the-counter pain-reliving medications may also be helpful.<\/p>\n During the first 24 to 48 hours, patients with concussions need<\/a> to rest and sleep. That includes taking a break from activities that require concentration. They also need to take a break from stimulation and avoid sports and screens (the light can be disturbing). Most kids benefit from staying home from school for a couple of day.<\/p>\n After a few days, kids can begin a gradual return to school and activity. Your child\u2019s doctor will have advice on how to ease back in.<\/p>\n If symptoms return, more rest is encouraged. Talk to your child\u2019s doctor about when your child can return to sports.<\/p>\n Most kids recover from concussions within a few weeks. But some experience post-concussive syndrome, where symptoms linger for months. Some kids may develop new symptoms, so keep a close eye on your child.<\/p>\n Kids who don\u2019t follow the recovery plan \u2013 such as returning to sports too soon \u2013 are at higher risk for prolonged symptoms or repeat concussions. Repeat concussions can lead to more severe problems, including behavioral changes, cognitive impairment and increased risk of other brain injuries.<\/p>\n Bottom line: Follow your doctor\u2019s directions for return to activity very carefully.<\/p>\n Preventing Concussions: What Parents Can Do<\/strong><\/p>\n Parents play a critical role in recognizing and managing concussions in children. Because concussions often don\u2019t have visible signs, it\u2019s usually up to parents to notice subtle changes in their child\u2019s behavior or physical symptoms. Being informed and vigilant can make a big difference in timely diagnosis and recovery.Educating themselves on concussion risks and the importance of rest and recovery allows parents to advocate effectively for their child\u2019s health \u2013 whether communicating with coaches, teachers, or healthcare providers. Awareness and prompt action from parents can make a significant difference in a child\u2019s recovery and long-term well-being. While not every concussion is avoidable, there are steps parents can take to reduce risk:\u2022 Make your home toddler-proof to prevent falls<\/p>\n As scary as a concussion may seem, most kids recuperate quickly with no long-term problems. But seeking medical care at the first signs of a head injury are important, so feel comfortable reaching out to your child\u2019s doctor with any concerns.<\/p>\n Returning to Play After a Head Injury During a Sporting Event<\/a><\/p>\n Sports-related concussions \u2013 Understanding the risks, signs and symptoms<\/a><\/p>\n After a Concussion: When to Return to School<\/a><\/p>\n Head Injury and Concussion<\/a><\/p>\nHow Do Kids Get Concussions?<\/strong><\/h3>\n
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Symptoms of a Concussion<\/strong><\/h3>\n
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Diagnosing a Concussion<\/strong><\/h3>\n
Recovery from a Concussion<\/strong><\/h3>\n
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Resources For Parents<\/h4>\n
Kaiser Permanente<\/h4>\n
American Academy of Pediatrics<\/h4>\n
My Doctor Online<\/h4>\n
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention<\/h4>\n