Concussions in Children: A Growing Concern
Introduction
Concussions are a common injury that can occur in children, and it’s essential to understand the best ways to manage and recover from them. According to the National Health Interview Survey, over 2 million children in the United States have been diagnosed with a concussion or brain injury at some point.
The Importance of Early Detection and Management
Detecting a concussion early is crucial, and it’s essential to act quickly to ensure proper management and recovery. Dr. Julie Wilson, a co-director of the Concussion Program at Children’s Hospital Colorado, emphasizes the importance of getting children back to their usual daily activities as soon as possible, with appropriate support.
Returning to School and Exercise
Returning to school and exercise is a crucial step in concussion recovery. According to Dr. Wilson, it’s essential to get children back to school as quickly as possible, with appropriate support, and to engage in light exercise that doesn’t pose a head injury risk. This can help improve recovery and reduce the risk of prolonged symptoms.
The Role of Exercise in Recovery
Exercise can play a significant role in concussion recovery, particularly in adolescents. Dr. Christina Master, a pediatrician and sports medicine and brain injury specialist at Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, notes that even though the brain is not a muscle, it acts like one and has a "use-it-or-lose-it" phenomenon. This means that exercising lightly, such as on a stationary bike or with a brisk walk, can help with recovery.
New Guidelines for Concussion Management
The Colorado Department of Education has recently updated its guidelines for concussion management, dispelling common myths about concussions, such as the need for loss of consciousness for a diagnosis. The revised guidelines reflect evidence-based best practices on how to return to school and exercise, and educating families and schools about these guidelines is critical.
Challenges in Concussion Management
Despite the importance of proper concussion management, challenges persist. Dr. Toni Grishman, senior brain injury consultant at the Colorado Department of Education, notes that more than half of students in Colorado may slip through the cracks with undiagnosed concussions. Barriers to medical care, lack of education, and parental reluctance to inform schools about a concussion may contribute to these missed diagnoses.
Conclusion
Concussions are a common injury that can occur in children, and it’s essential to understand the best ways to manage and recover from them. Early detection and management are crucial, and returning to school and exercise can play a significant role in recovery. Exercise, education, and support are all critical components of concussion management, and it’s essential to address the challenges that persist in this area.
FAQs
Q: What are the common symptoms of a concussion?
A: Common symptoms of a concussion include headache, dizziness, sensitivity to light and noise, and difficulty concentrating.
Q: How can I help my child recover from a concussion?
A: Encourage your child to rest, engage in light exercise, and seek medical attention if symptoms persist. Work with your child’s healthcare provider to develop a plan for recovery, and consider seeking additional support from a concussion specialist.
Q: What are the most common causes of concussions in children?
A: Concussions can occur in various settings, including sports, adventure sports, and everyday activities. Cheerleading, football, soccer, and other contact sports are common risk factors for concussions in children.
Q: How can I help my child return to school and exercise safely after a concussion?
A: Work with your child’s healthcare provider to develop a plan for returning to school and exercise, and consider seeking additional support from a concussion specialist. It’s essential to address any remaining symptoms and to gradually increase activity levels.
