Recognizing Concussion Symptoms in Kids:

A Guide for Parents

As parents, we always want to keep our children safe and healthy. However, accidents can happen, and it’s crucial to be prepared. Recognizing concussion symptoms in kids is an essential skill for every parent. This guide will help you understand what to look for and how to respond if you suspect your child has suffered a concussion. We’ll also explore the potential benefits of upper cervical chiropractic for concussions in kids as part of a comprehensive approach to care.

What is a Concussion?

A concussion is a type of traumatic brain injury caused by a bump, blow, or jolt to the head. It can also occur from a hit to the body that causes the head and brain to move rapidly back and forth. This sudden movement can create chemical changes in the brain and sometimes stretch and damage brain cells.

Concussions are often referred to as “mild” traumatic brain injuries because they are usually not life-threatening. However, the effects can be severe and long-lasting, especially in children with still-developing brains.

Common Causes of Concussions in Children

Children can experience concussions in various ways. Some common causes include:

• Sports-related injuries (e.g., football, soccer, basketball)
• Falls from playground equipment
• Bicycle accidents
• Car accidents
• Collisions during play or rough-housing

It’s important to note that a child doesn’t need to lose consciousness to have a concussion. Most concussions occur without a loss of consciousness.

Recognizing Concussion Symptoms

Recognizing concussion symptoms in kids can be challenging, as they may not always be able to communicate what they’re experiencing clearly. Additionally, symptoms can appear immediately after the injury or may not show up for hours or even days. Here are some signs to watch for:

Physical Symptoms

• Headache or pressure in the head
• Nausea or vomiting
• Balance problems or…