How Can I Tell If My Child Has A Concussion?

Concussions are a type of traumatic brain injury and a concern for parents of children engaged in sports, recreational activities, or daily play. Recognizing the signs of a concussion is crucial for prompt and appropriate care.

Symptoms to Look Out For In A Concussion

Keep an eye out for the following signs of a concussion:

Physical Symptoms: Noticeable changes in coordination and physical movements, such as dizziness, loss of balance, or unsteady walking.

Behavioral Changes: Unexplained changes in personality or a sudden shift in emotional responses, unusual irritability, or increased sensitivity to stimuli.

Cognitive Symptoms: Difficulty remembering recent events, feeling confused, or experiencing mental fog.

Communication Challenges: A child with a concussion might struggle with communication. Look for slurred speech, difficulty expressing thoughts, or problems understanding others. Changes in communication patterns can be subtle but important indicators.

Headache and Nausea: Persistent headaches and nausea are common symptoms of concussions. If your child complains of a headache that worsens or persists, or if they experience nausea or vomiting, it’s essential to seek medical attention.

Sensory Sensitivity: Concussions can heighten sensitivity to light and sound, so your child may become unusually sensitive to bright lights or loud noises.

Sleep Disturbances: Excessive sleepiness, difficulty falling asleep, or disrupted sleep.

Children may not always express their symptoms clearly, so staying vigilant and communicating openly with your child about how they feel is crucial in ensuring their well-being.

What to Do if You Think Your Child Has a Concussion

If you suspect that your child has a concussion, take the following immediate steps to ensure their well-being:

Remove from the Activity

If you suspect a head injury has occurred during sports or play, immediately remove your child from the activity. Continuing to participate in physical activities can worsen the concussion and delay recovery.

Seek Medical Attention

Take your child to see a doctor as soon as possible so they can assess the severity of the concussion, provide a proper diagnosis, and offer guidance on the appropriate course of action.

Observe Closely

Keep a close eye on your child’s symptoms, and if they worsen or new ones emerge, consult a healthcare professional promptly.

Rest and Limit Activities

Encourage your child to rest both physically and mentally. This includes limiting screen time, avoiding strenuous activities, and minimizing exposure to loud noises and bright lights.

Wait Until Cleared

Strictly adhere to medical advice regarding when your child can return to sports or other physical activities. Returning to play too soon increases the risk of a more severe concussion and prolonged recovery.

Stay Hydrated and Nourished

Ensure your child stays hydrated and eats nutritious meals. Proper nutrition supports the healing process and provides the energy needed for recovery.

Gather Evidence

If you believe that your child’s concussion was the result of another party’s negligence, gather as much information as possible about the incident that led to it.

This may include photographs of the scene, any equipment involved, or anything else that could be relevant. Take note of the location, circumstances, and individuals involved. If there were any witnesses, collect their contact information.

Maintain a detailed record of your child’s symptoms, medical treatments, and any communication with healthcare professionals. This information can be valuable when establishing a connection between the incident and the resulting concussion.

Contact A Philadelphia Personal Injury Attorney Today

Consult a trusted Philadelphia personal injury lawyer as soon as possible so they may assess the details of the case, advise you on potential legal actions, and guide you through the claims process.