Understanding Concussions in Children

Childhood is a time of joy, exploration, and occasional tumbles. While bumps and bruises are a natural part of growing up, it’s crucial to be aware of a more serious injury that can occur – concussions. It’s important to recognize the signs and symptoms in children since they can’t always express their symptoms like adults. If you suspect your child has a concussion, it is important to seek professional medical attention.

What is a concussion?

A concussion is a mild traumatic brain injury caused by a blow, jolt, or bump to the head or body that disrupts normal brain function. Children, especially those engaged in sports or physical activities, are susceptible to these injuries.

Signs and Symptoms:

1.     Physical Symptoms

• Headache

• Nausea or vomiting

• Dizziness or balance problems

• Sensitivity to light or noise

2.     Cognitive Symptoms

• Confusion

• Memory loss

• Difficulty concentrating

• Slurred speech

3.     Emotional Symptoms

• Irritability

• Mood swings

• Anxiety

• Sadness

4.     Sleep Disturbances:

• Trouble falling asleep

• Excessive sleepiness

• Changes in sleep patterns

Recognizing a Concussion in Children:

Children might not always express their symptoms as clearly as adults. Look out for subtle signs like changes in behavior, increased fussiness, or a noticeable decrease in participation in activities they usually enjoy. If you suspect your child has a concussion, it’s crucial to seek medical attention promptly. A healthcare professional will assess the severity of the injury and provide guidance on the appropriate steps for recovery.

Treatment:

1.     Rest:

• Physical and cognitive rest is essential in the early stages of concussion recovery. This includes limiting screen time, avoiding strenuous activities, and allowing the brain time to heal.

2.     Gradual Return to Activities:

• Once symptoms improve, a gradual return to normal activities, including school and physical activities, is recommended. This process should be supervised by a healthcare professional.

3.     Medication:

• Pain relievers may be recommended by a doctor to manage headaches but avoid medications that can thin the blood unless advised otherwise.

4.     Monitoring:

• Keep a close eye on your child’s symptoms and report any changes or concerns to their healthcare provider. Regular check-ups are essential during the recovery period.

Prevention is Key

1.     Proper Gear:

• Ensure your child wears appropriate protective gear during sports and recreational activities.

2.     Education:

• Teach your child the importance of reporting any head injuries, no matter how minor, to an adult.

3.     Safe Play Areas:

• Encourage play in safe environments, especially for younger children. Properly maintain playground equipment and supervise activities.

Concussions in children are serious, but with early detection and appropriate care, most children recover fully. Stay vigilant for signs and symptoms, prioritize safety during activities, and seek professional medical advice if a concussion is suspected. By taking these precautions, we can safeguard the well-being of our little ones and allow them to continue their journey of growth and exploration safely.

Ready when you need us 

Regardless of what type of medical situation you may be facing, Community First ER is here to help. There’s no need to make an appointment, and you won’t have to wait. Our board-certified physicians and nurses will always be ready to see you. We understand that emergencies aren’t always convenient, which is why we do everything we can to make your experience with us as hassle-free as possible. From the moment you arrive at Community First ER to the moment you leave us our compassionate and knowledgeable staff will take care of you or your family member appropriately. If your condition warrants transportation to a local hospital, we can easily arrange this using our ambulance and helipad services. Our 9,000 square foot facility includes an onsite lab, radiology, and imaging services and is equipped to provide adult, pediatric, and adolescent emergency and critical care. We strive to provide the most effective and most efficient medical care in a stress-free and comfortable environment.  

We are here to help  

At Community First ER, we are committed to providing you the best possible care now and always. With adult and pediatric emergency care available, we have a team of board-certified medical and surgical specialists we consult to help manage our patients and their medical emergencies. We form relationships with local doctors to ensure that our patients have access to the best specialists for their individual needs. You can call ahead and discuss your symptoms at any time. 

We are Community First Emergency Room – committed to putting your community, health, and YOU FIRST, every day.

If you are a loved one experiencing an urgent or emergency medical issue, please contact us right away at 281-343-3134. 

About Community First ER 

Emergency health care is a critical resource. Our commitment is to provide a personal, transparent, and concierge-driven emergency health care experience to our community members. Locally owned and operated by health care providers and partners we trust, we strive to support and create meaningful relationships with those around us. We exist to put your health and wellness first. For more information, visit our website at communityfirster.com and engage with us on social media!