Head injuries can happen to any child—whether it’s a tumble on the playground, a sports collision, or a fall at home. Here’s what Winchester parents need to know about recognizing and managing concussions in children and teens.

What Is a Concussion?

A concussion is a mild traumatic brain injury caused by a bump, blow, or jolt to the head. While most aren’t life-threatening, they require proper care. Important: You don’t have to lose consciousness to have a concussion—most people don’t.

Recognizing the Signs

Symptoms can appear immediately or develop over hours or days. Watch for:

• Headache or pressure in the head
• Nausea or vomiting
• Dizziness or balance problems
• Sensitivity to light or noise
• Confusion or feeling “foggy”
• Difficulty concentrating
• Irritability or mood changes
• Changes in sleep patterns

In young children: Excessive crying, changes in eating or sleeping, loss of interest in activities, or appearing dazed.

When to Seek Immediate Emergency Care

Go to the ER right away for:

• Loss of consciousness over one minute
• Severe or worsening headache
• Repeated vomiting
• Seizures
• Weakness or difficulty walking
• Slurred speech
• Unequal pupils
• Increasing confusion or cannot be awakened

When to Visit Urgent Care

Visit us if your child has a head injury with any concussion symptoms, or if you’re uncertain about severity. We’ll perform a thorough assessment, provide a diagnosis, and create a recovery plan. When it comes to your child’s head injuries, it’s always better to be cautious.

What to Do After Your Child’s Head Injury

First 24-48 hours:

• Monitor your child for new or worsening symptoms
• Allow rest and sleep (check on them every 2-3 hours)
• Limit screen time significantly
• Keep them from physical activities
• Use acetaminophen for pain if needed (avoid ibuprofen initially)
• No activities that could result in another head injury

Recovery Guidelines

Most children recover within 1-2 weeks with proper rest. The key is gradual return to activities.

Initial rest: No sports, limited school tasks, reduced screen time, and quiet activities only.

Step-by-step return:

1. Light activities at home
2. Return to school (with modifications if needed)
3. Light physical activity
4. Non-contact practice or exercise
5. Full activities with medical clearance

Critical rule: If your child’s symptoms return at any step, go back to resting. Never allow return to sports or high-risk activities the same day as the injury.

Age-Specific Considerations

Young children: Their developing brains are more vulnerable and may show different symptoms. They may not be able to communicate how they’re feeling, so watch for behavioral changes.

School-age children and teens: Young brains take longer to heal and are at higher risk for complications if they return to activities too soon. Academic accommodations may be needed during recovery.

Young athletes: Must be completely symptom-free and receive medical clearance before returning to contact sports. Second-impact syndrome, though rare, can be serious if another concussion occurs before full recovery.

The Bottom Line

Concussions in children should always be taken seriously. Don’t hesitate to seek evaluation after your child experiences a head injury—early recognition and proper recovery are crucial for their long-term health.

We’re here at Night Watch Winchester for your child when you need us—walk-ins welcome, no appointment necessary.