What to do
What to do if a concussion is suspected...
Concussions can be difficult to diagnose, in part because symptoms can be subtle. Sometimes you'll notice that your child may be unusually tired, they "just don't seem like themselves", or they're bothered by loud noises or bright lights. Other symptoms are more obvious, such as vomiting or the inability to answer questions. It's important to remember that your child may not be able to recognize and/or verbalize their own symptoms, especially if they are young. And to make it even more complicated, symptoms may not show up for hours or even days.
Remove your child from practice/play immediately
If a concussion is suspected - make sure your child is immediately removed from activity. When in doubt, sit them out. Don't allow anyone, young or old, to return to play without written medical authorization from a medical professional trained in the diagnosis and management of concussion.
Determine if emergency help is needed
If any of these symptoms appear, call 911 immediately. Learn more...
Coaches: Contact a parent/guardian
Many times symptoms will appear minutes, hours, or even days after an injury. Parents must know that their child may have suffered a concussion and the typical signs/symptoms. Most concussed athletes go home to parents who are ill-equipped to deal with a brain injury. Education is a must.
Consult a medical provider trained in concussion diagnosis/management
Some medical providers have very little experience diagnosing and managing concussions. It matters. Make sure to inquire.
Obtain written medical authorization
Most states with concussion laws require any athlete who has suffered a concussion to return to play only after obtaining written medical authorization stating they can resume activity. If your state does not have a concussion law, this is still a good practice to abide by. Don't guess whether or not a concussion has healed.
Return to play...gradually
After all physical symptoms have resolved and a medical provider has give your child permission to return to play, an international panel of concussion experts recommends having them follow a gradual protocol that increases physical stress incrementally. This is a good way to make sure symptoms have truly resolved. If symptoms return during this process, it is likely that more healing time is required and you should consult your medical provider. Learn more...
Dr. William Meehan, III Harvard University instructor; Director, Sports Concussion Clinic, Children's Hospital Boston, Mass.