What Is a Concussion?

A concussion is a type of traumatic brain injury—or TBI— caused by a bump, blow, or jolt to the head or by a hit to the body that causes the head and brain to move quickly back and forth. This fast movement can cause the brain to bounce around or twist in the skull, creating chemical changes in the brain and sometimes stretching and damaging the brain cells. 

How Can I Spot a Possible Concussion?

Children and teens who show or report one or more of the signs and symptoms listed below—or simply say they just “don’t feel right” after a bump, blow, or jolt to the head or body—may have a concussion or other serious brain injury.

Signs Observed by Parents or Coaches • Appears dazed or stunned • Forgets an instruction, is confused about an assignment or position, or is unsure of the game, score, or opponent • Moves clumsily • Answers questions slowly • Loses consciousness (even briefly) • Shows mood, behavior, or personality changes • Can’t recall events prior to or after a hit or fall

Symptoms Reported by Children and Teens • Headache or “pressure” in head • Nausea or vomiting • Balance problems or dizziness, or double or blurry vision • Bothered by light or noise • Feeling sluggish, hazy, foggy, or groggy • Confusion, or concentration or memory problems • Just not “feeling right,” or “feeling down” 

What Are Some More Serious Danger Signs to Look Out For?

In rare cases, a dangerous collection of blood (hematoma) may form on the brain after a bump, blow, or jolt to the head or body and can squeeze the brain against the skull. Call 9-1-1 or take your child or teen to the emergency department right away if, after a bump, blow, or jolt to the head or body, he or she has one or more of these danger signs: • One pupil larger than the other • Drowsiness or inability to wake up • A headache that gets worse and does not go away • Slurred speech, weakness, numbness, or decreased coordination • Repeated vomiting or nausea, convulsions or seizures (shaking or twitching) • Unusual behavior, increased confusion, restlessness, or agitation • Loss of consciousness (passed out/knocked out). Even a brief loss of consciousness should be taken seriously 

For more information, please visit HEADS UP | HEADS UP | CDC