How to Identify a Concussion

By Caitlin Bootsma
Consultant to the VIRTUS^® Programs

A concussion is more than just a knock to the head, though that may be what causes it. Concussions are brain injuries, incidents resulting from trauma that jolts the brain and affect its functioning.

As parents or caregivers, it is important to recognize the signs of a concussion. Contrary to popular belief, people do not always lose consciousness when they get a concussion, so check for these other potential signals that a concussion has occurred:

• Headache or pressure
• Appearing dazed or confused 
• Slow reaction time
• Nausea or vomiting
• Blurry vision
• Dizziness
• Feeling strange or sluggish
• Trouble concentrating or speaking coherently

It is likely that someone with a concussion will have more than one of these symptoms. However, someone with a concussion may not immediately exhibit everything on this list. 

If a child has a concussion, seek medical assistance and encourage them to rest both from physical and mental strain for the next 24 hours.
 

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