Concussion Return to School
What Is a Concussion?
A concussion is a type of traumatic brain injury—or TBI—caused by a bump, blow, or jolt to the head or by a hit to the body that causes the head and brain to move rapidly back and forth. This sudden movement can cause the brain to bounce around or twist in the skull, creating chemical changes in the brain and sometimes stretching and damaging brain cells.
Concussion Signs and Symptoms:
Physical signs and symptoms of a concussion may include:
- Headache
- Ringing in the ears
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Fatigue or drowsiness
- Blurry vision
Other signs and symptoms of a concussion include:
- Confusion or feeling as if in a fog
- Amnesia surrounding the traumatic event
- Dizziness or "seeing stars"
A witness may observe these signs and symptoms in the concussed person:
- Temporary loss of consciousness (though this doesn't always occur)
- Slurred speech
- Delayed response to questions
- Dazed appearance
- Forgetfulness, such as repeatedly asking the same question
You may have some symptoms of concussions immediately, and some can occur for days after the injury, such as:
- Concentration and memory complaints
- Irritability and other personality changes
- Sensitivity to light and noise
- Sleep disturbances
- Psychological adjustment problems and depression
- Disorders of taste and smell
If your child experiences any concussion symptoms after a head injury, they should be evaluated by a medical professional.
Returning to School after a Concussion:
Most children and teens will only need help through informal, academic adjustments as they recover from a concussion. However, for children and teens with ongoing symptoms, a variety of formal support services may be available to help them during their recovery. The type of support will differ based on the needs of each student. Please contact your students' school office, counselor or the school nurse for additional information.