HEALTH & SAFETY
Child Head Injury: Concussion Warning Signs
What to watch after a bump or fall, which danger signs need emergency care, and why same-day sports return is unsafe.
Symptoms may appear later
A possible concussion may cause headache, dizziness, vomiting, confusion, slow answers, unusual clumsiness, light or noise sensitivity, mood change, or a child who simply seems different. Babies and toddlers may cry more, refuse food, lose interest in play, or be harder to console. Symptoms can appear hours after the injury.
Know the emergency danger signs
Call 911 or go to the emergency department for seizure, repeated vomiting, worsening headache, one pupil larger than the other, weakness or numbness, slurred speech, increasing confusion or agitation, inability to recognize people or places, or increasing drowsiness and inability to wake. For infants and toddlers, refusing to nurse or eat or inconsolable crying after injury are also danger signs.
Remove from risk and get medical guidance
A child with a possible concussion should not return to sports or rough play the same day. Tell the clinician how the injury happened, whether consciousness or memory changed, and every symptom you noticed. Return to school and physical activity should follow the provider’s individualized plan.
- Stop the activity
- Check danger signs
- Record symptoms and timing
- Contact a health-care provider
- No same-day return to sports
WHAT TO DO NEXT
A simple plan to begin
- Stop play and stay with the child
- Check emergency danger signs
- Record what happened and symptoms
- Arrange medical evaluation for possible concussion
COMMON QUESTIONS
Helpful answers before you go
Can a child sleep after hitting their head?
Sleep itself is not automatically dangerous, but first follow the clinician’s advice and watch for danger signs such as increasing drowsiness or inability to wake. Seek urgent care when you are unsure.
Can my child return to the game if they feel better?
No. A child with a possible concussion should be removed immediately and stay out the same day and until a health-care provider clears the return.
TRUSTED SOURCES
Official guidance and product information
Product specifications can change. Confirm current details with the manufacturer before buying.
Was this useful? Explore another straightforward answer.
Browse all guides →