We often associate concussions with the start of the school year and the fall sports season. But September isn’t the only time when it’s smart to be vigilant about kids and concussions: summer, and all of the fun and adventurous activities that come with it, is just as important.
As the weather warms up, kids are likely to be out riding their bikes, going to the park, attending a dedicated soccer or cheerleading camp or taking part in pre-season sports practices. And these are some of the activities in which a concussion is most common: For kids under 9, concussions are most commonly sustained while bike riding or playing on the playground, while for those 10 to 19, it’s football or biking for boys and soccer, basketball or bike riding for girls, according to Safe Kids Worldwide, an organization that works to prevent childhood injuries.
[See: 10 Concerns Parents Have About Their Kids’ Health.]
But what exactly is a concussion — and, since keeping kids inside all summer isn’t the answer, what you can parents do to prevent one?
A concussion is a brain injury caused by either a blow to the head or a jolt or severe motion to the head. And it should be taken as seriously as any other medical emergency. Many people think a concussion is harmless or that it will clear up on its own. But receiving the proper treatment and managing a concussion the right way is essential to ensure it heals properly and that a child can get back to the sport or activity he or she loves.
If your child does sustain a concussion, you should know what to do and when to seek medical attention. While your child may be anxious to get back to practice or back on his or her bike, it’s important to remember that what may seem minor or trivial can become much more severe if the brain isn’t allowed to heal properly and given the right amount of rest. The “shake it off” mentality can do more harm than good.
There are a number of signs and symptoms to be on the lookout for, including: headache, nausea or vomiting, blurry vision, dizziness or poor balance, a sensitivity to light or noise, feeling sluggish or groggy, having difficulty paying attention or remember things or just simply “not feeling right.”
If your child does sustain a concussion, there are certain measures you can take. Start by telling someone — whether it’s the coach or a fellow parent who can help in an emergency. The child should immediately be taken out of the game or practice, or refrain from the activity, and not go back to it until they are completely healed. It’s important to understand the severity of the concussion before returning to play.
[See: Top Reasons Children End Up in the Hospital.]
It’s important to follow the recommendations of a licensed medical profession, and recommendations can vary depending on the severity and situation. The physician will be able to tell you the specifics of how to approach your child’s condition, but generally, make sure to give the brain time to heal. Most kids can return to their regular activities within 7 to 10 days, but do so slowly.
So how can you keep a child safe? The good news is most injuries are preventable — especially if you educate yourself and your child. Start by making sure your child is wearing the appropriate gear, which includes a helmet. Helmets can reduce the risk of a head injury by 45 percent — and of a brain injury by 33 percent, according to a report from Safe Kids. Helmets should be properly fitted and worn during the appropriate activities, including bike riding, horseback riding, playing sports and, particularly during the summer, when taking part in water sports like water skiing.
During activities, it’s important to play by the rules and to remind kids to always listen to their coach or caregiver. At Burke Rehabilitation Hospital in White Plains, New York, we work hard to not only provide effective rehabilitation when someone has experienced a traumatic brain injury, but to help prevent them in the first place. Therapists from Burke serve as volunteers for the ThinkFirst program, a national injury prevention program that takes places in schools and educates kids about safety as a way to reduce serious injury. The ThinkFirst About Concussions! program focuses on teaching about the management and prevention of concussions — and can help ensure the kids themselves know how to stay safe while engaged in various activities.
[See: What to Say and Do If Your Daughter Thinks She’s Fat.]
But concussions don’t only occur during sports or bike riding. You can also sustain a concussion from a fall or accident. To stay safe when driving, make sure you and all passengers are wearing a seat belt, that you’re not distracted — no texting! — and that you’re always alert and sober.
The summer should be a time of fun — of getting out and enjoying the weather and time together as a family. Concussions are not a joke, and you can reduce your risk by knowing how to prevent them and what to do in case someone you love sustains one. Whether you’re driving to the beach, your teen is attending his or her beloved sports camp or your little ones are riding to their favorite park, staying smart and safe will ensure everyone has their best summer yet.
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Steer Clear of Concussions This Summer originally appeared on usnews.com
