Head Injury and Concussions

Traumatic brain injury (TBI) is caused by a bump, blow, or jolt to the head or a penetrating head injury that disrupts the normal function of the brain. Not all blows or jolts to the head result in a traumatic brain injury. The severity of a traumatic brain injury may range from mild (a brief change in mental status or consciousness) to severe (an extended period of unconsciousness or amnesia) after the injury.( RIDOH)

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What are the signs and symptoms of a concussion?
(If your child has experienced a bump or blow to the head)

• Appears dazed or stunned
  
• is confused about what happened
  
• Forgets instruction
  
• Is unsure of the time, day or year
  
• moves clumsily
  
• answers questions slowly
  
• loses consciousness afte the incident (even briefly)
  
• shows mood, behavior or personality changes
  

Child may report:

• headache or "pressure" in head
  
• nausea or vomiting
  
• balance problems or dizziness
  
• double or blurry vision
  
• sensitivity to light or noise
  
• feeling sluggish,hazy, foggy or groggy
  
• concentration or memory problems
  
• confusion
  
• "Just not feeling right"

WHAT SHOULD YOU DO IF YOU THINK YOUR CHILD HAS A CONCUSSION?

1. Seek medical attention right away.
2.  Keep your child out of sports.  Concussions take time to heal.  
3.  Inform your child's school nurse, teacher  and coaches