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Pediatric Concussions

Concussions often occur during sports, but can also happen with car accidents, bike accidents or falls. Kids can get a concussion at any age. It’s important to watch your child carefully for possible signs and symptoms of a concussion, so they can get medical care as soon as possible if they need it.

Children’s Health treats more kids with concussions than any other hospital in North Texas. Concussions can be scary, but most kids recover fully if they get the right medical care.

Concussion 24 Hour Advice Line

844-414-6824

Dallas (Cityville)

214-867-6900
Fax: 214-867-5654

Plano

469-497-2501
Fax: 469-497-2507

Request an Appointment with codes: Neurology

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What is a Pediatric Concussion?

A concussion is a brain injury caused by a blow to the head or body that shakes the brain inside the skull. This leads to changes in the way the brain functions. Concussions can cause problems with vision, balance and memory.

It’s possible to have a concussion without losing consciousness or having an obvious, external head injury.

What are the signs and symptoms of Pediatric Concussion?

Concussions can affect kids differently, but there are common signs and symptoms to look out for. Symptoms can occur immediately after a head injury or may evolve over the first 24 to 48 hours after the injury.

Common symptoms of a concussion include:

  • Headache
  • Dizziness
  • Nausea
  • Light or sound sensitivity
  • Balance problems
  • Double or blurry vision
  • Memory problems
  • Confusion
  • Fatigue
  • Irritability or emotional changes

There are some symptoms that require urgent medical attention. Go to the nearest emergency room if your child has any of the following:

  • Repeated vomiting
  • Loss of consciousness
  • Weakness or numbness
  • Inability to walk normally
  • Slurred speech
  • Severe headache
  • One pupil larger than the other
  • Convulsion or seizure
  • Sudden behavior or mood change

How are Pediatric Concussion diagnosed?

Concussions can’t be diagnosed by a single test. If your child has a head injury, our expert team will conduct an in-depth neurological exam to determine if they have a concussion. The exam is not painful and includes an assessment of:

  • Motor and sensory skills (movement, hearing, vision, etc.)
  • Balance and coordination
  • Reflexes
  • Mental status and neuropsychological testing
  • The eyes’ ability to track motion

Additional testing to look at eye movements and thinking may also be performed. Imaging tests may be used to rule out more severe head injuries. These tests include:

How is a Pediatric Concussion treated?

Concussion treatments will vary depending on the type and severity of the injury. Your child’s treatment may include:

  • Physical therapy
  • Occupational therapy
  • Over-the-counter or prescription medications

Allowing the concussion to fully heal is vital for your child’s short- and long-term health. Our concussion team will carefully monitor and assess your child. A slow return to activities, including both school and sport, is an important part of recovery. Our team will work with you and your child to provide the help needed for your child to get back to full activity when it’s safe.

Pediatric Concussion Doctors and Providers

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