What is a concussion?
A concussion is a type of brain injury that changes the way the brain normally works. A concussion is caused by a bump, blow, or jolt to the head.
Concussions can also occur from a blow to the body that causes the head and brain to move rapidly back and forth.
This may occur througth a collision in sport or playing in the playground, by jumping from a height and the head nodding sharply, by tripping and falling - - and so on. So there may not be an obvioius event that says "better keep an eye on him/her": Be aware all the time. Know the symptoms.
Even what seems to be a mild bump to the head can be serious.
Concussions can have a more serious effect on a young,developing brain and need to be addressed correctly.
You can’t see a concussion: There doesn't need to be a visible bruise, a cut, a lump -- concussion is about what is going on inside the skull.
Signs and symptoms of concussion can show up right after an injury or may not appear or be noticed until hours or days after the injury.
It is important to watch for changes in how the youngster is acting or feeling: If symptoms are getting worse, or if she/he just “doesn’t feel right”.