What is concussion (mild tbi)?

A concussion is a type of traumatic brain injury that is caused by a blow to the head or body, a fall, or another injury that jars or shakes the brain inside the skull. Although there may be cuts or bruises on the head or face, there may be no other visible signs of a brain injury.

You don't have to pass out (lose consciousness) to have a concussion. Some people will have obvious symptoms of a concussion, such as passing out or forgetting what happened right before the injury. But other people won't. With rest, most people fully recover from a concussion. Some people recover within a few hours. Other people take a few weeks to recover.

It's important to know that after a concussion the brain is more sensitive to damage. So while you are recovering, be sure to avoid activities that might injure you again.

In rare cases, concussions cause more serious problems. Repeated concussions or a severe concussion may lead to long-lasting problems with movement, learning, or speaking. Because of the small chance of serious problems, it is important to contact a doctor if you or someone you know has symptoms of a concussion.

Any person who may have a concussion needs to see a doctor. If a doctor thinks you have a concussion, they'll ask questions about the injury. Your doctor may ask you questions that test your ability to pay attention and your learning and memory. They may check how quickly you can solve problems. They may also show you objects and then hide them and ask you to recall what they are. The doctor will check your strength, balance, coordination, reflexes, and sensation.

Neuropsychological testing has become more common after a concussion. It's one of many ways your doctor can test how well you are thinking and remembering after a concussion.

Sometimes a doctor will order imaging tests, such as a CT scan or an MRI, to make sure that your brain isn't bruised or bleeding.

After being checked by a doctor, most people can go home. Others need to be watched in the hospital. The doctor will tell you if you need someone to watch you closely.

Rest can help you recover. Doctors usually recommend complete rest for up to 2 days. Then slowly return to your regular activities.

• Get plenty of sleep.
• Avoid alcohol and drugs.
• Don't do activities that are physically or mentally demanding.
• Use ice or a cold pack on any swelling. Put a thin cloth between the ice and your skin.
• Ask your doctor if you can take an over-the-counter pain medicine.

If you might have a concussion, stop any activity or sports. See a doctor before returning to sports.

Pain control

• Use ice or a cold pack for 10 to 20 minutes at a time on the part of your child's head that hurts. Put a thin cloth between the ice and your child's skin.
• Ask the doctor if your child can take an over-the-counter pain medicine, such as acetaminophen (Tylenol) or ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin). Be safe with medicines. Read and follow all instructions on the label.

At home

• Help your child rest their body and brain. Most experts agree that children should rest for 1 to 2 days. Let your child know that rest—even though it can be hard—can speed up recovery.
  • Pay close attention to symptoms as your child slowly returns to a regular routine. Avoid anything that makes symptoms worse or causes new ones.
  • Make sure your child gets plenty of sleep. It may help to keep your child's room quiet, dark or dimly lit, and cool. Have your child go to bed and get up at the same time, and limit foods and drinks with caffeine.
  • Limit housework, homework, and screen time.
  • Avoid activities that could lead to another head injury.
  • Follow your doctor's instructions for a gradual return to activity and sports.

Back to school

• Wait until your child can focus for 30 to 45 minutes at a time before you send your child back to school.
• Tell teachers, administrators, school counselors, and nurses what symptoms your child has or could develop. Sign a release form so the school can coordinate care with your child's doctor.
• Arrange for any special changes your child needs. For example, depending on symptoms, your child may need to:
  • Start back to school with shorter days.
  • Take 15-minute breaks after every 30 minutes of classwork.
  • Have more time for assignments, postpone tests, or have another student take notes.
  • Avoid bright lights. (You can suggest dimmed lighting or that your child wear sunglasses.)
  • Avoid noisy places, like the gym or cafeteria.
• Check in with school staff often. Discuss how your child is doing, academically and emotionally. A concussion can make kids grouchy and emotional. And needing extra help or extra rest can be hard for some kids.
• If your child doesn't recover within 3 to 4 weeks, talk with your doctor and the school staff. They may recommend a 504 plan. It's a plan for kids who need ongoing adjustments at school.