Symptoms of concussion in kids: What every parent should know

Kids are typically naturally energetic, bouncing from activity to activity. With all that energetic play comes the risk of bumps and bruises and, sometimes, head injuries. A concussion is a type of mild traumatic brain injury, and it can be very concerning for parents. However, understanding the symptoms and knowing what to do if you suspect your child has a concussion can help you navigate this situation calmly and ensure that your bundle of energy gets the proper care. 

You may think concussions are something that only happens on the football field or to older children. However, concussions can occur at any age. And surprisingly, as much as concussions are linked to football, more concussions actually happen in girls’ sports. 

What is a concussion?

A concussion is a brain injury that is caused by a bump, blow or jolt to the head that can disrupt the normal function of the brain. It doesn’t necessarily mean there’s bleeding in the brain, but it does mean the brain needs time to rest and heal. 

Signs and symptoms of concussion in kids to watch out for

Unlike adults, kids can’t always effectively express their symptoms, especially after a head injury. In the first few hours, days or weeks after a potential concussion, here are some key signs and symptoms to watch out for:

• Headaches — Headaches are one of the most common symptoms of a concussion. However, not every headache is a red flag for a concussion. Pay attention to if the headache is new, feels worse than unusual or doesn’t get better with rest.
• Dizziness or balance problems — Feeling lightheaded, dizzy or unsteady on their feet could indicate a concussion.
• Confusion or difficulty concentrating — Does your child seem dazed, forgetful or struggle to follow simple directions? These could be signs of a concussion.
• Changes in behavior — Irritability, unusual crankiness, sadness or having a hard time sleeping can all be symptoms of a concussion in children. 
• Loss of consciousness — While not as common, some children may briefly lose consciousness after a head injury. If your child loses consciousness, it’s essential to seek immediate medical attention. 
• Vision problems — If your child is complaining of seeing double, blurry vision or sensitivity to light, these could be concussion symptoms. 
• Nausea or vomiting — Nausea and vomiting can happen after a head injury, but they can also be signs of other issues. 

Every child experiences concussions differently. Even if your child doesn’t show all of these symptoms, it’s crucial to seek medical attention if you suspect a concussion. 

What to do if you suspect a concussion 

If you suspect your child has a concussion, a few steps you can take include:

• Stop the activity — First and foremost, stop whatever activity caused the potential concussion. If your child continues the physical activity, it can make the injury worse.
• Seek medical attention — Contact your pediatrician or take your child to the closest emergency room for an evaluation. You should never ignore a head injury, even if your child seems fine. 
• Observe and monitor — The doctor will assess your child’s symptoms. They may recommend mental and physical rest. Limiting electronic screen time can also be helpful during recovery. 
• Communicate openly — Talk to your child’s school about the concussion and make any necessary adjustments. Adjustments could include modified assignments, reduced activity levels in gym class or extra time on tests.
• Get clearance for a return to play — It’s important to only allow your child to return to regular play or sports with permission from a medical provider. This can help ensure that they’re at their full potential and ready to safely return to regular physical activity.

Recovery tips for kids with concussions

A concussion can be scary and stressful for both you and your child. They may not fully understand what’s going on or why they can’t be wide open in their activities. Here are some tips to help your child during their recovery:

• Rest is key — Just like a broken bone needs time to heal, your child’s brain needs time to recover from a concussion. This means plenty of rest and avoiding strenuous activities.
• Listen to their body — Encourage your child to listen to their body and avoid activities that make them feel worse. 
• Gradually return to activity — With health care provider approval, your child can gradually return to physical activity. They should start light and work their way back up to full activity levels. 
• Hydration matters — Encourage your child to drink plenty of fluids to stay hydrated. Hydration can help with the healing process.
• Eat healthy foods — Provide your child with a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables and whole grains to help support their overall well-being. 
• Patience is important — Recovery from a concussion can take days, weeks or even months in severe cases. Be supportive and patient as your child heals. 
• Seek physical therapy — Physical therapy can help address any balance problems, vision issues, neck pain or sensory sensitivities that can come with a concussion in kids. 

Concussions in kids can be scary; REPAIR SI can help your child recover safely

Thinking your child has a concussion can be a nerve-wracking experience. However, by understanding the symptoms and taking proactive steps toward recovery, you can help ensure that your child gets the best care possible. Remember, you’re not alone in this journey. At REPAIR SI, we have experienced physical therapists who understand the unique needs of children recovering from concussions. They can work together with your child’s doctor to create a personalized treatment plan to address any physical limitations caused by the injury, promote faster healing, and empower your child to return to their favorite activities safely and confidently. Let’s work together to get your child back on the field, back on the court, or simply back to being their happy, healthy and active self. 

Contact our team today for more information or to schedule an initial appointment.