How Can I Tell If My Child Has A Concussion?
Concussions can be tricky. Even trained healthcare providers may have a hard time diagnosing concussions because of its varying signs and symptoms. The majority of the time, concussions don’t show up on CT scans or MRIs. But just because a CT scan or MRI is negative, does not rule out a concussion. Keep in mind: most of the time concussions do not involve a loss of consciousness.
Concussion may have several signs visible to those familiar with an individual who’s recently experienced a blow to the head. There are many subtle signs that can point towards a concussion. Sometimes your teammates, coaches, or parents may be the ones to recognize these signs. Getting a concussion feels different for every person that experiences it. Symptoms differ drastically from person to person.
Signs & Symptoms of a Concussion:
Signs(observed by you) |
Symptoms(reported by your child) |
| • Forgets events before the injury | • Concentration or memory problems |
| • Forgets events after the injury | • Dizziness or lightheadedness |
| • Behavior or personality change | • Sensitivity to light or noise |
| • Loses consciousness, even briefly | • Change in sleep pattern |
| • Appears to be dazed or stunned | • Double or fuzzy vision |
| • Is confused about assignments | • Feeling “foggy” |
| • Answers questions slowly | • Headache |
| • Moves clumsily | • Nausea |