Concussions and Young Athletes

You’ve been here countless times: It’s a big game, and you know your child has the skills to win. Concussion is probably the last thing on your mind, but they’re more common than you might think. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 7 in 10 young athletes have reported playing while experiencing concussion-like symptoms. Untreated, concussions can lead to severe brain injury. That’s why it’s important to learn the symptoms of concussion and ensure your child plays safely.

Understanding the Symptoms

After a major strike or blow to the head or body, check to see if your child is experiencing:

• Balance problems/dizziness or “seeing stars”
• Confusion or feeling “foggy”
• Double or fuzzy vision
• Fatigue
• Headache or a feeling of pressure in the head
• Irritability or crankiness
• Loss of balance or unsteady walking
• Memory problems
• Nausea or vomiting
• Ringing in the ears
• Sensitivity to light or sound
• Slurred speech
• Temporary loss of consciousness

If your child has experienced or is experiencing any of these symptoms, it’s time to visit us. Take your child out of the game to rest up and seek medical attention. It’s better to miss one game as a preventive measure than the whole season as a result of not being cautious enough.

If any of these symptoms worsen, take your child to the nearest emergency room.

Recovering Safely

The best medicine for a concussion is time. After visiting the Pediatric Sports Medicine Facility, your child’s physician may recommend lots of rest and relaxation. Once the doctor gives permission for your child to return to regular activity and play, make sure they take things slowly to avoid re-injuring him or herself. As always, talk with your doctor about best practices for your child’s recovery.