How do I know if the head injury my child suffered is a concussion?

Some signs that a person has suffered a concussion include any loss of consciousness, a blank stare or stunned appearance, confusion, difficulties with memory, speech or answering simple questions. If your child complains of headache, nausea, vomiting, blurred vision or just does not feel right, s/he probably has sustained a concussion and should be checked out by a medical professional.

Concussions are caused by a blow to the head or the body that is hard enough to cause the brain to be shaken around in the skull. You do not have to be hit in the head or knocked out to have one. Concussions are an injury to the brain and are potentially serious, so should not be ignored. Most concussions cause functional disturbances rather than a structural injury to the brain. This means they can be diagnosed by an in-person exam, but not by CT or MRI scans. Typically, treatment for a mild concussion will mean removal from play, physical and mental rest and an over the counter pain reliever, if needed. A more serious injury needs more immediate attention. If there is any doubt, a visit to an urgent care clinic such as Yubadocs is worth the peace of mind.

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