What is a Concussion?
A concussion is a mild traumatic brain injury that is caused by a bump, blow or jolt to the head. This can potentially alter the way the brain works.
If your child has experienced a bump or blow to the head during a game or practice, look for any of the following signs and symptoms of a concussion:
WHAT SHOULD YOU DO IF YOU THINK YOUR CHILD HAD A CONCUSSION?
1. Seek medical attention right away. A health care professional will be able to decide how serious the concussion is and when it is safe for your child to return to sports.
2. Keep your child out of play. Concussions take time to heal. Don’t let your child return to play until a health care professional says it’s OK. Children who return to play too soon—while the brain is still healing—risk a greater chance of having a second concussion. Second or later concussions can be very serious. They can cause permanent brain damage, affecting your child for a lifetime.
3. Tell your child’s coach about any recent concussion. Coaches should know if your child had a recent concussion. Your child’s coach may not know about a concussion your child received in another sport or activity unless you tell the coach.
CDC: Get a Heads Up, What is a Concussion