Correctly interpret the warning signs of a concussion – Heilpraxis

All Parents Should Be Aware of These Signs of Concussion

concussions are often much more difficult to recognize in children than in adults. Some rather non-specific appearing symptoms are possible here Warning signs assess. Of the Professional Association of Pediatricians (BVKJ) educates on these lesser-known signs of concussion.

Blurred vision, mood swings, drowsiness and balance problems are possible warning signs in addition to typical concussion symptoms such as headache, neck pain, nausea and vomiting, reports the BVKJ.

Concussion in children is often difficult to identify

According to the BVKJ, it is often difficult to recognize a concussion, especially in young children, because they often do not show the typical symptoms. In 2019 are about 80,000 children and young people due to a concussion in a hospital in this country and the number of people actually affected is probably much higher.

at infants A concussion is often caused by household accidents, such as a fall from the changing table. at toddlers it could also be due to accidents in childcare facilities.

And with them schoolchildren Almost a third of concussions are caused by accidents in schools, reports the BVKJ. In addition, accidents during sports or leisure as well as traffic accidents are often the cause.

With the biggest teenagers concussion is mainly the result of accidents on public roads or during organized sports.

“The symptoms and course of the accident are important information for the pediatrician”stress professor doctor Hans Jürgen Nentwichmember of the BVKJ expert committee.

Lesser Known Concussion Symptoms

According to the expert, a change in behavior, increased drowsiness, slowed reactions and a lack of desire to gamble or drink may also occur. Evidence of a concussion be. “Then parents should take their child to the pediatrician”warns Professor Nentwich.

Sometimes complaints relate to only one delay detectable from hours to days. According to the BVKJ, the emergency room should therefore be visited in the event of increased headaches, changes in mood or behavior or mental problems.

A short recovery phase is usually sufficient

In the event of a concussion, adolescents should limit their daily activities a day or two restrict in order to be able to recover, and use media such as smartphones and television as little as possible, according to the expert. Reading should also be limited for the time being.

“Parents should discuss returning to their usual daily routine and visiting a community facility with their pediatrician”like that Professor Nentwich further away. Typically, there is a slow, gradual increase in movement and mental demands.

Prolonged symptoms

In some children, however, more lasting symptoms may be seen after a concussion. About one third (30%) children still have after four weeks Problems like headaches, dizziness, balance problems, irritability and anxiety, says Professor Nentwich.

To 12 weeks are still round ten percent affected by the consequences of the concussion and after 12 months still five percent.

Plus one came study by researchers from University of Texas at Houston Health Sciences Center (UTHealth) from 2020 concluded that concussions can lead to long-term cognitive and emotional impairments and behavioral changes.

According to Professor Nentwich, a early interdisciplinary follow-up useful for affected children and young people. (fp)