Concussions in Children & Teens: What Parents Need to Know

A concussion is a mild traumatic brain injury (TBI) that occurs when a bump, blow, or jolt to the head—or even a hit to the body—causes the brain to move rapidly inside the skull. This sudden movement stretches brain cells and leads to temporary chemical changes that disrupt normal brain function.

At the Children’s Clinic in Jackson, TN, we see concussions regularly in children and teens. Understanding the causes, symptoms, and proper recovery steps can help parents protect their kids and ensure a safe return to normal activities.

Causes of Concussions in Children & Teens

Concussions can happen in any activity where a child’s head is at risk of injury, but they are especially common in contact sports like:

  • Football

  • Soccer

  • Hockey

  • Basketball

  • Rugby

  • Wrestling

  • Lacrosse

  • Cheerleading

Other recreational activities—such as bike riding, skateboarding, and tree climbing—can also lead to head injuries.

Children under age 4 are most likely to get concussions from falls, while teenagers are at increased risk due to their growing independence and potential peer pressure to take risks.

Common Symptoms of Concussions

Children who say they "don’t feel right" after a hit to the head or body may have a concussion. Parents should look for signs such as:

  • Appearing dazed or stunned

  • Confusion about instructions, game rules, or surroundings (for athletes)

  • Moving clumsily

  • Slowed speech or responses

  • Mood or personality changes

  • Difficulty recalling events before or after the injury

Older children and teens may also report:

  • Headache or pressure in the head

  • Nausea or vomiting

  • Dizziness, balance problems, or blurry vision

  • Sensitivity to light or noise

  • Feeling sluggish, foggy, or groggy

  • Sleep disturbances (sleeping more or less than usual)

  • Difficulty concentrating or feeling "off"

Symptoms can appear immediately or take a few days to develop.

When to Seek Emergency Care

Take your child to the emergency department immediately if they experience any of these dangerous symptoms:

  • Worsening headache that won’t go away

  • Weakness, numbness, or loss of coordination

  • Repeated vomiting

  • Slurred speech

  • Severe drowsiness or difficulty waking up

  • One pupil larger than the other

  • Seizures or convulsions

  • Inability to recognize people or places

  • Increased confusion, agitation, or unusual behavior

  • Loss of consciousness (even briefly)

For infants, inconsolable crying or refusing to eat or nurse after a head injury is also a red flag.

Diagnosing a Concussion

Your child’s doctor will ask for details about the injury, symptoms, and medical history. They will check for previous concussions, ADHD, migraines, sleep disorders, or mood disorders, as these can affect recovery.

Some doctors use standardized tests like SCAT6 (Sport Concussion Assessment Tool) or computerized tools such as ImPACT (Immediate Post-Concussion Assessment and Cognitive Testing) to evaluate symptoms.

Are Imaging Tests Necessary?

CT scans and MRIs are not always needed for diagnosing a concussion, as they primarily detect structural brain injuries rather than changes in brain function. Imaging may be recommended if the child has:

  • Severe or worsening symptoms

  • Loss of consciousness

  • Signs of a skull fracture or bleeding in the brain

Concussion Treatment & Recovery

The best treatment for a concussion is rest from both physical and mental activities for the first 48-72 hours. While monitoring your child is important, there is no need to wake them up frequently unless advised by a doctor.

Returning to School & Activities:

  • Kids do not need to be completely symptom-free before returning to school but should be able to focus for 30-40 minutes before needing a break.

  • Recess and P.E. may need to be modified, but some physical activity is beneficial for recovery.

  • Symptoms should be closely monitored, and parents should follow up with a doctor if they worsen or persist beyond a few weeks.

Most children recover from a concussion in about a month, but up to 30% may experience longer-lasting symptoms. Recovery time depends on factors like the severity of the injury, medical history, and how well the child follows treatment guidelines.

Talking to Your Child About Concussions

Encourage your child to report any symptoms after a head injury—even if they think it's minor.

Some teen athletes hesitate to report concussions out of fear of losing their position on a team. Remind them:

  • It's better to miss one game than an entire season.

  • Athletes who leave the game immediately after a concussion recover faster than those who continue playing.

Preventing Concussions

While concussions can’t always be prevented, taking precautions can reduce the severity of injuries:

  • Ensure children wear properly fitted helmets for activities like biking, skateboarding, snowboarding, horseback riding, and contact sports.

  • Teach safe playing techniques and enforce game rules to prevent dangerous collisions.

  • Encourage open communication—kids should never ignore a head injury, no matter how minor it seems.

Final Thoughts

Concussions are common in children and teens, but recognizing symptoms early and following proper recovery steps can prevent long-term complications. If you suspect a concussion, don’t hesitate to reach out to your child’s doctor for guidance.

At the Children’s Clinic in Jackson, TN, we are here to support families through the recovery process and ensure that children return to school and sports safely. If you have any concerns about head injuries, give us a call—we’re happy to help!

Click Here For Original Article: https://shorturl.at/5fonj