Concussion Clinic

A concussion is a brain injury resulting from trauma to the head. Concussions can vary in severity and timing from injury to onset of symptoms. All concussions must be treated with the same initial caution to allow the brain time to heal.

Symptoms of a Concussion

Any head injury associated with the following symptoms should be evaluated in the Emergency Department:

  • Headaches, especially those that worsen or do not improve with over-the-counter medications
  • Repeated vomiting
  • Loss of consciousness longer than a few seconds
  • Neck pain
  • Dizziness or unbalanced feeling
  • Altered level of mental performance, including memory problems or difficulty concentrating
  • Seizures
  • Unusual speech that is slurred or stuttered

Symptoms of a concussion can also include: 

  • Fatigue
  • Sensitivity to light or noise
  • Confusion or feeling irritable and anxious

Sleep problems can arise from concussions. A child with a concussion may be drowsy despite sleeping more than normal or may have difficulty falling asleep. These symptoms are the brain’s way of showing it has been injured, and treatment should be sought.

Most young children recover from a first concussion in seven to 10 days. Teens and collegiate athletes may recover faster, in five to seven days. Repeated concussions generally increase the amount of time required for the child to recover, which could double the amount of rest needed.