Concussions

Nearly 2 million American children experience concussions annually — and when your child has a traumatic brain injury of this type, they need expert care. At AMS Neurology in Pasadena, California, experienced pediatric neurologist Charles Niesen, MD, and the trained specialists provide excellent concussion care for children of all ages. Call the office or use the online booking tool to arrange your child’s appointment now. 

What are concussions?

Concussions are the most common type of traumatic brain injury. Children can experience a concussion following an auto accident, sports injury, fall, or anything else that causes the brain to move rapidly within the skull. 

What are the symptoms of a concussion?

A concussion isn’t always obvious at first, but your child may show symptoms such as: 

• Memory lapses
• Poor attention span
• Difficulty understanding what others are saying
• Dizzy spells
• Confusion
• Disorientation
• Tiredness
• Headaches
• Behavior changes, such as being unusually irritable
• Balance issues
• Lack of interest in usual activities
• Sleeping problems

It’s important to take these symptoms seriously. Ignoring a concussion could lead to long-term issues. In addition, a child with an untreated concussion has an increased risk of another concussion.

Certain symptoms, such as seizures, loss of consciousness, one pupil larger than the other, or slurred speech require emergency care. 

How are concussions diagnosed?

The AMS Neurology specialists review symptoms and evaluate the circumstances surrounding your child’s concussion. Your child’s provider performs a full neurological and cognitive exam with a gentle and empathetic approach. 

Your child may need diagnostic imaging like a CT scan or MRI, balance testing, or other types of post-concussion evaluation as well. 

How are concussions treated?

Most concussions heal after less than a week with the proper medical care. After a concussion, your child needs rest to recover. The rest period applies to both sports and mental activity, and it may be as short as a few days. 

As your child returns to their normal activities after a concussion, they may need to make some modifications, such as a shorter day at school. 

Every concussion is different, and each child is unique, so their AMS Neurology provider creates a personalized recovery plan just for the situation. 

How are concussions prevented?

Your child’s AMS Neurology provider recommends specific concussion prevention tips to follow in the future. If your child participates in any sports activities, it’s essential that they wear the proper protective gear. That includes activities like riding a bike (always wear a helmet).

Concussions are potentially serious brain injuries that require specialized care from expert neurologists. You can trust your child’s brain health to the AMS Neurology specialists, so call the office or use the online appointment maker to book an evaluation today.