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A concussion is a mild brain injury caused by a blow or sudden jolt to the head. It disturbs the way your brain works and can make you feel confused or disoriented. Symptoms include headaches, dizziness, nausea, difficulty concentrating, irritability, and sadness.
A doctor will check your child’s vision, hearing, and memory. They may also order a CT scan to look at your child’s brain after injury. Treatments include getting plenty of sleep, returning to a routine, avoiding activities that can cause concussions, and avoiding busy environments.
Concussion symptoms usually develop in the first few days after an injury. Your child may not notice problems until returning to school or daily life. For many people, symptoms resolve within a few days or weeks. Common symptoms include:
For at least 24 hours after you leave the hospital, have someone stay with your child to watch for warning signs. Call 911 or go directly to the nearest emergency department if your child has any of these symptoms:
Causes of concussions include:
Your child’s doctor will test their hearing, vision, balance, coordination, and reflexes. They will also test your child’s memory and ability to concentrate. If necessary, the doctor will take a CT scan to look at your child’s brain right after an injury.
Treatments for a concussion include:
It is very important to protect your child from further brain injury after they have a concussion.
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This medical information is provided by Intermountain Healthcare. It has not been developed to replace medical advice provided by your health care provider.
Last review date: March 2017