A concussion is a brain injury that occurs when a blow to the head or body causes the brain to move in its surrounding fluid. This movement leads to changes in the brain’s chemistry, so it is vital to get your little one checked out if you suspect that they are suffering from a concussion.
Concussions can be very serious, especially in kids, as their brains haven’t fully developed yet. If your child hits their head, it makes a lot of sense to get them checked out, as concussions can lead to some unpleasant symptoms. There are a few tell-tale signs to watch out for, so we have put together this short article on the signs and symptoms of concussion in children.
Signs and Symptoms of Concussions
If your child has hit their head, there are a few tell-tale signs that could indicate that they are suffering from a concussion. Sometimes the symptoms may not show up straight away, so make sure you monitor your child’s behavior, mood, and physical condition.
The symptoms of concussion include:
- Headache
- Nausea and vomiting
- Sensitivity to noise and light
- Balance problems
- Dizziness
- Irritability
- Problems concentrating
- Changes in sleep patterns
The symptoms are slightly different in babies and toddlers, so keep an eye out for:
- Changes in eating habits
- Excessive crying
- Losing interest in toys
How Do Kids Get Concussions?
There are numerous reasons why kids can get concussions. It is inevitable that, at some point in their development, they will “face-plant” themselves while attempting to do some new activity.
Kids are very active, and as they develop, they will start exploring the house and playing lots of games. This is usually lots of fun for the whole family, but there is also the potential for accidents to occur. For example, when your child starts to walk, they are going to want to explore every area of the house. They seem to be magnetically drawn to stairs and steps. Because they lack coordination, they may trip, fall over, and hit their heads.
Other ways that kids can get concussion include:
- Hitting their heads while playing contact sports such as football, ice hockey, or soccer
- Fights
- Falls
- Car or bicycle accidents
What to Do If You Think Your Child Has a Concussion
If you think that your child has a concussion, then they should stop whatever activity they are doing. You should then ask them if they are in any pain or if they have any symptoms. If the symptoms are mild, you should call your doctor for advice. They will probably recommend going in for a checkup. However, if your child is confused and sick, you should get them to an emergency room as soon as possible.
When your child is diagnosed with a concussion, it is essential that they rest (physically and mentally) as much as possible and that they don’t play any contact sports until their doctor has cleared them.