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Concussion, incorrectly called concussion, is a short-term disturbance of the brain activity caused by a mechanical injury to the head. It is not uncommon for children to experience accidents while playing, so they are particularly vulnerable to concussion. What are the symptoms of concussion in children? What is the treatment like and what are the complications after concussion in children?
Concussion symptoms in children
Not every head injury is necessarily a concussion in children. It is very important to watch what happens to your baby after he falls or hits his head. Concussion in children does not change the brain on imaging, but detecting it early can prevent complications. It is important to observe the child as symptoms of concussion may appear in a child up to 3 days after the injury. One of the characteristic symptoms of concussion in children is loss of consciousness, which occurs in a few cases and always requires hospitalization. Other symptoms of concussion are nausea and vomiting as well as recurrent headaches, lethargy, memory impairment, problems with balance and coordination, speech problems, confusion, and excessive sensitivity to sound and light. Remember that if your child has had a recent head injury and you notice any changes in your child’s behavior and the symptoms listed above, see a doctor as soon as possible.
Treatment of concussion in children
Diagnosed concussion in children requires inpatient treatment in its first phase. The child undergoes a neurological examination to rule out abnormalities in the brain that could rule out concussion. During the treatment, medications are given to reduce the unpleasant symptoms characteristic of concussion in children. The main recommendation of the doctor will be rest from physical and mental exertion. A child with a concussion must limit watching TV, using a computer or a mobile phone, but also reading and writing. In the initial phase of treatment, the child should lie down and subsequent activities, such as sitting down and standing up, should be introduced slowly, so as not to cause fatigue and symptoms return. In the second stage of treating a concussion in a child, treatment may take place at home, and the return to school will be associated with exemption from physical education. Despite the resolution of concussion symptoms, follow-up examinations at the neurological clinic should be remembered in order to exclude complications after a cerebral concussion in a child.
Complications that can occur after concussion in a child
Concussion in children is often asymptomatic, and if neglected it can lead to complications. Complications after concussion in children may be short-term or long-term. In the case of the first group, the child may develop severe headaches, difficulty concentrating, and mood swings. The second group of complications after concussion in children is associated with the occurrence of mental disorders, neurological problems and long-term memory loss. Remember not to underestimate any disturbing symptoms in your child, if he or she has suffered a head injury, it will avoid your toddler’s post-cochlear syndrome.
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