Spending a warm spring day at the Regal Soccer Stadium, a neighborhood playground, or a ballpark like TriStar Park – Badgett Field is a great way to enjoy the season and soak up some much-needed sunshine. But with all that activity, accidental falls and head bumps can happen. When they do, it’s not always easy to tell if it’s just a minor bump or something more serious like a concussion. Here’s how to know the difference and when to seek medical care.
A concussion is a type of mild traumatic brain injury that occurs when the brain moves rapidly inside the skull after a blow to the head or a sudden jolt to the body. This can happen during sports, falls, vehicle accidents, or other impacts. While many people recover fully, concussions should always be taken seriously and evaluated by a medical professional.
One important thing to remember is that concussion symptoms don’t always appear right away. They can develop hours or even days after the injury, so monitoring symptoms closely is essential.
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Common Symptoms of a Concussion
The most common signs of a concussion affect thinking, balance, and physical comfort.
Physical Symptoms
- Headache
- Nausea or vomiting
- Dizziness or balance problems
- Blurry or double vision
- Ringing in the ears
- Fatigue or feeling unusually tired
Cognitive Symptoms
- Confusion or brain fog
- Trouble concentrating
- Memory problems or amnesia
- Feeling slowed down or groggy
Emotional or Behavioral Symptoms
- Irritability
- Mood changes
- Sensitivity to light or noise
- Trouble sleeping
These symptoms may last for several days, and in some cases weeks. Rest and avoiding activities that worsen symptoms are important parts of recovery.
Signs of a Concussion Others May Notice
Sometimes the person who experienced the injury may not recognize the symptoms themselves. People nearby may notice signs such as:
- Appearing dazed or stunned
- Moving clumsily or having balance issues
- Slurred speech
- Forgetting instructions or recent events
- Temporary loss of consciousness
- Sudden mood or personality changes
If these signs appear after a head injury, the person should be evaluated by an AFC healthcare provider promptly. Walk in or book online for convenient assessment.
Concussion Symptoms in Children
Concussions can be harder to identify in young children because they may not be able to explain how they feel. Parents and caregivers should watch for changes such as:
- Irritability or excessive crying
- Loss of balance or unsteady walking
- A dazed appearance
- Changes in eating or sleeping habits
- Vomiting
- Seizures
Children experience bumps and falls frequently, but any significant head injury should be evaluated by a medical professional.
When to Seek Immediate Medical Attention
Some symptoms may indicate a more serious brain injury and require emergency care. Seek immediate emergency medical help if someone experiences:
- Loss of consciousness lasting more than 30 seconds
- Repeated vomiting
- Severe or worsening headache
- Unequal pupil size
- Fluid or blood coming from the nose or ears
- Slurred speech
- Weakness in arms or legs
- Seizures or convulsions
- Extreme drowsiness or inability to wake up
Common Causes of Concussions
Concussions can occur in many situations where the head or body experiences sudden force.
In Adults
The leading causes of concussion in adults include falls (most common cause), motor vehicle accidents, sports injuries, being struck by an object, and physical assaults.
In Children and Teens
Sports and recreational activities are a major contributor for concussions in children and teens, particularly during seasons with increased outdoor activity.
Sports with Higher Concussion Risk
Some sports carry a higher risk of concussion due to frequent contact or falls. These include:
- Football
- Soccer (girls’ soccer consistently ranks second behind football in concussion incidence)
- Ice hockey
- Lacrosse
- Wrestling
- Cheerleading
Collisions with other players, hitting the ground, or contact with equipment are common causes of sports-related concussions.
Concussion Recovery and Treatment
Rest is the most important part of concussion recovery. In the first few days after an injury, it’s recommended to:
- Limit physical activity
- Avoid strenuous mental tasks
- Reduce screen time
- Get plenty of sleep and rest
As symptoms improve, light activity can gradually return. Most people can resume normal school, work, and sports once symptoms have completely resolved and a healthcare provider clears them.
Monitoring Symptoms After a Head Injury
Because concussion symptoms can appear later, it’s important to continue monitoring for several days after a head injury. If symptoms worsen or new symptoms appear, medical evaluation is recommended.
Early assessment and proper recovery time help reduce the risk of long-term complications and allow the brain time to heal.
Head Injury in Adults and Children
Most playground falls and sports-related bumps are harmless, but not all. Knowing the signs of a concussion can help you act quickly and confidently. If you or your child experiences symptoms like confusion, dizziness, or persistent headache after a head injury, don’t wait. Our AFC Urgent Care Chapman Highway team is here to evaluate and treat head injuries so you or your child can get back to feeling your best and enjoying spring again.