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As football, soccer, and cheerleading camps pick up across California in late July, sports-related injuries become more common — especially head injuries like concussions. While some concussions result from obvious collisions, many symptoms can be subtle, especially in children and teens. That’s why early recognition and medical evaluation are critical.
What Is a Concussion?
A concussion is a mild traumatic brain injury (TBI) caused by a bump, blow, or jolt to the head or body that causes the brain to move rapidly inside the skull. Even when there's no loss of consciousness, a concussion can still impact memory, coordination, and behavior.
Common Symptoms of a Concussion in Children
Children may not always describe their symptoms clearly. Watch for these signs:
- Headache or "pressure" in the head
- Dizziness or balance issues
- Nausea or vomiting
- Blurred vision
- Sensitivity to light or noise
- Feeling sluggish, groggy, or "off"
- Trouble concentrating or remembering
- Mood changes (irritability, sadness, nervousness)
- Sleep disturbances
If your child is unable to continue playing, seems disoriented, or doesn’t recall events before or after the hit, it’s important to seek care immediately.
What to Do If You Suspect a Concussion
Remove your child from play right away. Continuing to play after a concussion can worsen the injury and increase recovery time.
Next steps:
- Schedule an evaluation with a Primary Care provider or Orthopedic specialist
- Follow return-to-learn and return-to-play guidelines
- Monitor your child for worsening symptoms like seizures, repeated vomiting, or confusion
How BASS Medical Group Can Help
BASS Medical Group has expert Primary Care and Orthopedic teams who are experienced in evaluating and managing sports-related injuries, including concussions. We can guide you through a safe recovery plan so your child returns to sports only when it’s truly safe.
FAQs About Pediatric Concussions
What sports are most likely to cause concussions? Football, soccer, cheerleading, basketball, and skateboarding are among the most common sports linked to concussions in youth.
Can a child have a concussion without losing consciousness? Yes. Most concussions don’t involve blacking out. That’s why behavior and symptom changes are important to watch for.
How long does it take to recover? Most children recover in 1-2 weeks, but every case is different. Rest and proper monitoring are essential.
Should my child get a CT scan? Not always. Many concussions can be diagnosed through clinical evaluation. Imaging is typically reserved for more severe cases.
Trusted Resources
- CDC Heads Up: Concussion in Youth Sports
- California Interscholastic Federation Concussion Policy
- American Academy of Pediatrics: Concussion Info
If you suspect your child has a concussion, don’t wait. Contact a Primary Care provider or Orthopedic specialist at BASS Medical Group today for expert evaluation and recovery guidance.
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