Concussion

What is a concussion?

A concussion is linked to recent injuries or traumas that can be mild or severe in nature. Ailments that may lead to concussions commonly include:

• Traumatic brain injury (TBI)
• Mild or serious head trauma

Your child may obtain a concussion if they sustain a bump or blow to the head or experience a severe impact to the body that causes their head to be jarred rapidly back and forth.

When this happens, the brain bounces around in your child’s skull, causing chemical changes in the brain that sometimes leads to brain cell damage.

What is post-concussion syndrome?

Post-concussion syndrome is when your child has concussion symptoms that last longer than the expected recovery period.

The condition may also be driven by:

• Extreme emotional stress
• A history of a stroke
• Meningitis or encephalitis
• Transient ischemic attack (TIA) or ministroke
• Your child may develop delayed symptoms if they have post-concussion syndrome.

What are the symptoms of a concussion?

Your child may experience a variety of concussion symptoms, including:

• Brain fogginess
• Memory loss
• Trouble concentrating
• Body pain on one side
• Scattered thoughts
• Dizziness
• Headaches
• Mood swings
• Pain or tension in your child’s neck or jaw
• Sensitivity to light or loud sounds
• Sleeplessness or chronic tiredness
• Symptoms may arise within a week or two of an injury or ailment, or take months to emerge.

Some symptoms go away after a month or may linger for a year or longer.

How is pediatric concussion diagnosed?

To make a diagnosis, Newtown Pediatrics looks at many variables that might indicate trauma, ranging from changes in balance to memory lapses and dizziness.

Depending on your child’s symptoms, age, and the severity of the injury, various tests may also be ordered, such as:

Neurological test

Neurological testing assesses motor and sensory skills, the functioning of one or more cranial nerves, hearing and speech, vision, coordination and balance, mental status, and changes in mood or behavior.

CT scans or MRIs

A CT scan or MRI provides more detailed images of your child’s brain and is used to look for suspected bleeding or swelling.

How can my child recover from a concussion?

Newtown Pediatrics develops a concussion treatment plan based on your child’s medical history, symptoms, and the severity of their condition.

Most people who sustain a concussion fully recover within a week or two with rest. However, in rare instances, a concussion can result in long-term problems. The quicker the diagnosis, the better the chances for a full recovery.

Your child’s pediatrician may ask you to cut your child’s screen time and avoid driving or other sports activities for the time being. Be sure to help your child get plenty of rest and take breaks from an activity so they’re not overexerting themselves.

To find out how Newton Pediatrics can help with your child’s concussion, call the nearest office or book an appointment online today.