Concussions in children may not always be easy to spot, but understanding the common signs can help you be more prepared to support them. A concussion is a mild form of brain injury that occurs when the brain is shaken inside the skull, typically due to a bump, blow, or jolt to the head. Here are some typical symptoms and practical advice on what to do if you suspect a concussion:
Physical Symptoms
Common physical symptoms include changes that can occur shortly after the injury. Cognitive symptoms often involve difficulty concentrating, confusion, or memory issues. Mental symptoms manifest as irritability, mood swings, or increased anxiety, making it important to monitor changes in behavior.
Headaches
Children might frequently complain of headaches, ranging from dull to throbbing pain, after an impact. This is one of the most commonly reported symptoms and can linger for several days. Encourage them to rest in a quiet, low-light environment to reduce discomfort.
Dizziness and Balance Issues
Feeling dizzy or unsteady when trying to stand or walk is another common symptom of concussions in kids. Pay close attention if your child seems off-balance or mentions feeling lightheaded. This symptom could make everyday activities like playing or even walking more challenging for them.
Vision Changes
Blurred or double vision could occur following a hit to the head. Be aware if they squint more, seem disoriented when looking at objects, or complain that things appear unclear. These symptoms indicate that their brain is working harder to process visual information post-injury.
Nausea or Vomiting
After a head injury, some children report feeling nauseated or experiencing vomiting. This physical response might appear soon after the incident or a few hours later. Keep a close eye on how often they feel sick and whether it seems to worsen after physical activity.
Cognitive Signs to Understand
Changes in cognition are common cognitive signs following a head injury in children. These manifest as trouble following conversations, completing homework, or recalling recent events. Monitoring these changes closely can help identify the need for further evaluation or support.
Difficulty Concentrating
Kids may have a harder time staying focused on tasks like homework. They may also have trouble following simple instructions. They might appear distracted or express frustration at not being able to focus for long periods.
Forgetfulness
A concussion might make it harder for your child to remember recent events or things they recently learned. They could struggle to recall what they did earlier in the day. They may also forget assignments they were told about at school. Be aware of sudden mood swings after a fall or a hit to the head. Your child might become withdrawn, more tired than usual, or seem generally “off.” These changes can occur even if they don’t mention any physical discomfort.
Visit a Neurologist for Concussions
If your child exhibits any of the symptoms listed, it’s best to limit their activity and allow for rest. Talk to a healthcare provider promptly to discuss their symptoms and any concerns. Avoid activities that could increase the risk of another fall, blow, or injury until they recover fully. Providing plenty of mental and physical breaks helps their brain recover more smoothly. Most kids bounce back from a concussion with appropriate rest and time, but paying attention to these subtle cues lets you step in and provide the support they need. Schedule an appointment with a physician to learn more.
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