Parkridge Medical Group
September 29, 2015

Whether on the playing field or the monkey bars, your child could be at risk for concussion any time he or she is at play.

Learning to recognize the signs and symptoms of concussions is important even for parents of non-athletes. Because leaving a concussion unaddressed can have serious health consequences, you should know what to look for after even a seemingly minor bump to the head.

Regardless of the severity of symptoms, all potential concussions should be taken seriously. Anytime your child’s head comes into forceful contact with a hard object—with or without a loss of consciousness—be on the lookout for concussion symptoms for at least the first couple of days afterward.

The Symptoms

Signs that your child has suffered a concussion can present in a variety of ways.

Parents, coaches or teachers may notice that a child with a concussion:

  • Becomes forgetful
  • Can’t remember his or her actions leading up to or just after the contact
  • Experiences mood swings
  • Seems confused or dazed

Children, on the other hand, may complain of:

  • Blurred vision
  • Fatigue
  • Headaches, nausea or dizziness
  • Heightened sensitivity to noise and light

Educate your children about potential symptoms they may experience, and remind them to tell you if they feel abnormally drowsy or have any difficulty thinking clearly or concentrating. If a concussion is suspected, children should not return to play, whether in organized sports or simply outside with their friends, until they are symptom free.

Does your child need a pediatrician? To find one in your area, visit parkridgehealth.com/physicians.