Concussions
Concussions
Three million children are estimated to sustain a traumatic brain injury (TBI) each year, 80 to 90% of which are mild. But what is a mild TBI (aka concussion)? Read below to learn more.
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Your Brain
A concussion is a brain injury that interferes with normal brain function. It can have serious effects on young and developing brains. Concussion recovery can take anywhere from days to months.
Proper rest is KEY to the brain’s full recovery
Concussions can happen with any brain injury. These injuries can occur anywhere, not just on a sports field. Any motion that would cause one’s brain to bump against the inside of their skull could cause a concussion. Often times, people do not lose consciousness after suffering a concussion.
Observed Signs
Observed Signs
Disorientation
Forgetfulness
Unsteady Gait
Behavioral Changes
Delayed Responses
Loss of consciousness
Reported Signs
Reported Signs
Headache
Nausea
Dizziness
Loss of Balance
Blurry Vision
Light Sensitivity
Feeling “foggy” or “funny”
Memory Loss
Inability to Concentrate
Confusion
What to Expect after a Concussion
What to Expect after a Concussion
Missing class
Sitting out in PE, sports and other physical activities
Avoiding high concentration mental activities such as quizzes
Needing rest breaks
Needing extra time and instruction to complete tasks
Wearing sunglasses to help with light sensitivity
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The Road to Recovery
Slowly and with breaks as needed, activities can be resumed. This includes activities that require physical strain and/or mental stamina.
O
O
Rest
Limit physical/cognitive activity
No activities that leave one at risk for another concussion
Adequate sleep (additional naps if needed)
O
O
Relaxed Activities
Activities that require low exertion on the brain/body
If no symptoms occur during activity, it is appropriate!
O
O
Moderate Activity
Resume normal activities, taking breaks if experiencing increased symptoms
O
O
Regular Activity
Resume normal activities without any symptoms!
Resources Used
CDC: https://www.cdc.gov/headsup/basics/concussion_whatis.html
IHSA: https://www.ihsa.org/Resources/Sports-Medicine/Concussion-Management/Concussion-Resources
Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children's Hospital of Chicago: https://www.luriechildrens.org/en/specialties-conditions/pediatric-concussion/concussion-legislation/
Children's National Hospital: https://childrensnational.org/visit/conditions-and-treatments/brain--nervous-system/concussion
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