As parents, we try to do everything we can to keep our kids safe—but injuries can still happen, especially when they’re playing sports or just being active kids. One injury that often goes unnoticed or underestimated is a concussion. While it may not involve cuts or bruises, a concussion is a brain injury, and it deserves serious attention.
Knowing the signs, understanding the risks, and having tools like baseline concussion testing or concussion care can help you protect your child’s brain both now and in the long run.
What Is a Concussion, Really?
A concussion is a type of traumatic brain injury (TBI) caused by a bump, blow, or jolt to the head—or even a hard hit to the body that causes the head to move suddenly. That movement can cause the brain to bounce or twist inside the skull, leading to chemical changes and sometimes damaging brain cells.
In kids and teens, concussions can have more significant effects because their brains are still developing. Plus, they may have a harder time explaining how they feel, or may not even realize something’s wrong. That’s why it’s so important for parents to know the warning signs and stay alert after a fall or hit to the head.
Signs & Symptoms of a Concussion
Symptoms may appear right away or be delayed for hours—or even days. Every child is different, but here are some key things to watch for:
Physical Symptoms
- Headache or pressure in the head
- Nausea or vomiting
- Dizziness or balance problems
- Blurry or double vision
- Sensitivity to light or noise
- Fatigue or trouble sleeping
Cognitive Symptoms
- Confusion or difficulty thinking clearly
- Trouble concentrating or remembering things
- Feeling “foggy” or slowed down
Emotional Symptoms
- Irritability or mood swings
- Sadness or nervousness
- Seeming more emotional than usual
Sleep Changes
- Sleeping more or less than usual
- Trouble falling asleep
When Should Parents Seek Medical Attention?
If your child takes a hit to the head and shows any of the symptoms listed above, it’s best to have them evaluated by a medical provider experienced in concussion care.
You should come in immediately if your child experiences:
- Loss of consciousness, even for a moment
- Repeated vomiting
- Behavior that seems “off” or unusual
- Worsening symptoms over time
Even if the symptoms seem mild, it’s still important to get your child checked out. Concussions can be tricky—symptoms may not be obvious right away, and pushing through them can lead to longer recovery times or serious complications.
The Role of Baseline Concussion Testing
One of the best tools available to protect young athletes is baseline concussion testing. This type of testing is done before any injury occurs and gives medical professionals a personalized snapshot of how your child’s brain functions when it’s healthy.
It typically measures:
- Memory and concentration
- Reaction time
- Balance and coordination
- Visual processing
If your child later suffers a concussion, we can compare their post-injury performance to their baseline. This helps us make safer return-to-play decisions and ensure the brain has fully recovered before they’re back in action.
Why It Matters for Kids and Teens
Children and teens often want to “tough it out” to stay in the game—but returning too soon after a concussion puts them at risk for further injuries.
Baseline testing helps providers make evidence-based decisions and gives you peace of mind as a parent. It’s especially helpful for kids involved in sports like football, soccer, basketball, cheerleading, wrestling, hockey, and gymnastics.
Complete Health Partners Concussion Care & Testing in Hendersonville & Nashville
You know your child best. If something seems “off,” trust your gut and get them checked out. Concussions can impact school, sports, mood, and memory—but with the right care, kids recover well.
Baseline testing is a simple step you can take now to protect your child’s future. It’s fast, non-invasive, and can make a real difference in how we manage care if a concussion ever happens. Complete Health Partners offers FREE baseline concussion testing with all our youth sports physicals. Simply Walk in or book an urgent care appointment online today!
6749 Charlotte Pike, Nashville, TN 37209
629.203.7858
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166 E Main Street, Hendersonville, TN 37075
615.991.2855
9am – 7pm, 7 Days a week