Signs of Concussions in Children: What Parents Need to Know

En Español

Fall sports in BVSD are currently underway, and winter sports will begin soon. We want to take this opportunity to inform our families about BVSD’s Concussion Protocols. Concussions are a type of mild traumatic brain injury caused by a blow to the head or a sudden jolt to the body that forces the brain to move rapidly back and forth. It’s important for parents to be aware of the signs and symptoms of concussions, especially after their child has experienced a fall, accident, or sports injury.

Here's what to watch for:

Physical Symptoms:

• Headache: The most common symptom. Your child may complain of pain or pressure in the head.
• Nausea or Vomiting: Feeling sick to the stomach, especially shortly after the injury.
• Dizziness: Complaints of feeling lightheaded, or trouble balancing.
• Sensitivity to Light or Noise: Your child might feel uncomfortable with bright lights or loud sounds.
• Vision Problems: Blurred or double vision, or difficulty focusing.
• Fatigue: Unusual tiredness or drowsiness, sometimes with difficulty waking up.

Cognitive (Thinking) Symptoms:

• Confusion or "Foggy" Feeling: Your child may seem dazed or have trouble understanding what’s happening.
• Memory Issues: Difficulty remembering the event of the injury, or trouble recalling recent information.
• Trouble Concentrating: Struggling with schoolwork, games, or paying attention.
• Slowed Reaction Time: Responding to questions or movements more slowly than usual.

Emotional and Behavioral Changes:

• Irritability or Mood Swings: Your child may be more easily upset or unusually emotional.
• Sadness or Anxiety: Feelings of sadness or nervousness without a clear reason.
• Behavioral Changes: Acting out, being more clingy, or seeming unusually quiet or withdrawn.

Sleep Issues:

• Difficulty Falling Asleep: Trouble getting to sleep at night.
• Sleeping More or Less: Changes in how much your child sleeps—either too much or not enough.
• Feeling Tired All the Time: Complaints of being exhausted despite a full night’s rest.

What To Do if You Suspect a Concussion:

1. Remove from Activity: If your child is playing sports, remove them from the game immediately.
2. Seek Medical Attention: Consult a healthcare professional as soon as possible, even if symptoms appear mild.
3. Monitor Closely: Symptoms can develop over time, so keep a close watch in the hours and days after the injury.
4. Follow Recovery Guidelines: Follow the doctor’s advice regarding rest and a gradual return to physical and mental activities.

When to Seek Emergency Help:

If your child experiences any of the following after a head injury, seek emergency care immediately:

• Loss of consciousness, even for a brief moment
• Seizures
• Worsening headaches
• Repeated vomiting
• Difficulty walking, talking, or using their arms/legs
• Slurred speech
• Unusual behavior or drowsiness that’s getting worse

Prevention Tips:

• Encourage the use of helmets during sports and activities like biking or skateboarding.
• Ensure proper safety gear is worn during contact sports.
• Create safe home environments by removing tripping hazards and ensuring playgrounds are soft and safe.

By knowing the signs and taking quick action, you can help protect your child and promote a safe recovery from a concussion.

Learn more on the BVSD Health Services Concussions and Head Injuries webpage.