A concussion is a type of traumatic brain injury (TBI) caused by a bump, blow, or jolt to the head or body that results in the brain moving rapidly within the skull. While concussions are often associated with sports injuries, they can occur in any situation where a child experiences a sudden impact.
Recognizing the signs of a concussion in children is crucial, as timely diagnosis and proper management can prevent complications and support recovery.
Here’s what parents and caregivers need to know about the symptoms and warning signs. As always, consult with your child’s doctor or other healthcare provider if you’re worried that your child may have a concussion.
Common Signs Of A Concussion In Children
Concussion symptoms can vary widely depending on the child’s age, the severity of the injury, and individual factors.
Some common signs include physical, cognitive, emotional, and behavioral changes.
For example, a child may experience headaches, nausea, dizziness, or blurred vision shortly after the injury. These physical symptoms are often the most immediate and noticeable. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), these symptoms may appear immediately or develop hours or even days after the injury.
In addition to physical symptoms, children with concussions may also exhibit cognitive changes, such as confusion, difficulty concentrating, or slowed thinking. A child might struggle to recall what happened before or after the injury or have trouble following conversations. The Mayo Clinic notes that these symptoms can affect a child’s performance in school or daily activities.
Emotional and behavioral changes, such as irritability, mood swings, or increased crying, are also common. These symptoms can be particularly challenging to recognize, especially in younger children who cannot articulate their feelings. As highlighted by Children’s Hospital Colorado, these changes may be mistaken for typical behavior, so it’s essential to consider them in the context of a recent injury.
Quick Recap: Common Signs
- Headaches or pressure in the head
- Nausea or vomiting
- Dizziness or balance problems
- Blurred or double vision
- Sensitivity to light or noise
- Fatigue or drowsiness
- Confusion or feeling “foggy”
- Difficulty concentrating or remembering
- Irritability or mood swings
Less Common But Crucial Signs Of Concussions In Children
While the symptoms mentioned above are more frequently observed, there are other, less common signs that can indicate a concussion. For instance, sensitivity to light and noise is a lesser-known symptom that may cause children to avoid bright lights or loud sounds. According to NVPeds, this heightened sensitivity can be a key indicator of a concussion.
Balance problems are another important sign to watch for. Beyond dizziness, concussions can lead to significant balance issues, making children appear unsteady or clumsy. This symptom is particularly concerning because it can increase the risk of further injury if the child falls. Additionally, some symptoms may not manifest immediately but can develop hours or even days after the injury. The Mayo Clinic emphasizes the importance of monitoring a child for delayed symptoms, such as persistent headaches or changes in behavior.
Quick Recap: Less Common Signs
- Sensitivity to light and noise
- Balance problems or unsteadiness
- Delayed symptoms (appearing hours or days later)
Severe Concussion Symptoms Requiring Immediate Attention
Certain symptoms indicate a more serious injury and require immediate medical attention. Loss of consciousness, even briefly, is a significant concussion indicator. While not all concussions involve losing consciousness, it is a clear sign that the brain has been affected.
Similarly, seizures, though rare, can occur following a concussion and necessitate urgent care. Clear fluid or blood draining from the nose or ears after a head injury can signal a severe brain injury, such as a skull fracture. The Mayo Clinic and Nationwide Children’s Hospital both stress the importance of seeking immediate medical attention if these symptoms are present.
Another severe sign is unusual pupil dilation or unequal pupil sizes, which can indicate significant head trauma. This symptom is often a red flag for more serious brain injuries and should never be ignored. As noted by the Mayo Clinic and Nationwide Children’s Hospital, monitoring a child’s eyes for any changes after a head injury is critical.
Quick Recap: Severe Symptoms
- Loss of consciousness (even briefly)
- Seizures or convulsions
- Clear fluid or blood draining from the nose or ears
- Unequal pupil sizes or unusual dilation
Long-Term Complications And Recovery
Some children experience prolonged symptoms lasting weeks or months, a condition known as post-concussion syndrome. This can include ongoing headaches, dizziness, or cognitive difficulties, significantly impacting a child’s quality of life. According to Mass General Brigham, post-concussion syndrome requires careful management and often involves a multidisciplinary approach to treatment.
Another serious complication is second impact syndrome, which occurs when a child sustains another concussion before fully recovering from the first. This can lead to rapid and severe brain swelling, which is potentially fatal. As highlighted by Verywell Health, preventing additional head injuries during recovery is critical to avoiding this life-threatening condition.
Quick Recap: Long-Term Complications
- Post-concussion syndrome (prolonged symptoms)
- Second impact syndrome (severe brain swelling from repeat injury)
Academic And Daily Life Challenges Following A Concussion
Concussions can also affect a child’s academic performance and daily life. Post-concussion, children might face difficulties in school, such as trouble concentrating, memory issues, or slower processing speeds. These challenges may necessitate academic adjustments, such as reduced workloads or extended time for tests.
The Lurie Children’s Hospital advises parents to communicate with teachers and school staff to ensure their child receives the necessary support during recovery.
Quick Recap: Academic Challenges
- Difficulty concentrating or remembering
- Slower processing speeds
- Need for academic adjustments
By recognizing the signs of concussions in children, whether physical, cognitive, emotional, or behavioral, parents and caregivers can take swift action to ensure their child receives the care they need.
Early intervention and proper management are the best ways to support a child’s recovery and long-term well-being.
The information provided is for educational purposes only. It should not be a replacement for medical care or advice. This info is not intended to diagnose or replace medical treatment. Consult your doctor if you have any questions about your child’s health. If they are experiencing an emergency, contact 911 or transport them to the nearest emergency room.