If you have a young athlete in the family, their safety should be your top priority. Contact sports like football and basketball may result in falls, which could lead to concussions that require the attention of a doctor. To help you care for your child, here’s a guide to everything you need to know about this common sports injury. 

What Parents Should Know About Concussions

What Is It?

A concussion is a type of mild traumatic brain injury that results from a blow to the head that interrupts regular function. This injury can also be caused by a head jolt or blow to the body that slams the skull. While they are generally not life-threatening, they can be serious. 

What Are the Symptoms?

If your child hits their head during sports or experiences a head jolt, they may display some common symptoms. Keep in mind that while some signs appear immediately, others may show up several days later.

Some of the main symptoms of a concussion include confusion, headache, dizziness, blurred vision, sensitivity to light and sound, slurred speech, nausea, vomiting, and difficulty concentrating. These will depend on the severity of the concussion, so it’s important to see a doctor if you notice any suspicious signs following a fall or accident.

What Should You Do If Your Child Might Have One?

When your child experiences a blow to the head, be sure to promptly seek medical attention. A doctor will perform tests or X-rays to determine whether they have sustained a concussion and how severe it is.

If your child has one, the doctor will likely recommend that they get plenty of rest and cease physical activities for at least two or three days. After that, they may be able to resume their sport with some modifications. You may need to bring your child to the clinic for a follow-up appointment. 

How Can You Prevent This?

As a parent, you can talk to your child about sports safety to prevent concussions. If they play a sport that requires a helmet, be sure that their helmet fits properly and they are wearing safety equipment at all times. You can also talk to their coach about enforcing safety rules during games and practice.

If your child has sustained a head injury, be sure to seek immediate care at Patients First Medical Clinic. Located in Anchorage, AK, this team of doctors, nurses, and professionals has over 150 years of combined experience. They offer a wide variety of services to cover your whole family’s needs, including wellness exams, urgent care, pediatrics, and women’s health. They also accept a variety of insurance plans. You can visit them online to view a full list of their services, or call (907) 333-7425 to make an appointment.