Children of all ages can be vulnerable to concussions following an injury or trauma. However, the experts in children’s health at Newton Pediatrics can provide a swift diagnosis and treatment to restore healthy function. At their offices in Newton, Wellesley, and Waltham, Massachusetts, the team determines the best treatment approach and offers compassionate support when your child has a concussion. Call your nearest Newton Pediatrics office or book an appointment online today to get your child the help they need.
A concussion is linked to recent injuries or traumas that can be mild or severe in nature. Ailments that may lead to concussions commonly include:
Your child may obtain a concussion if they sustain a bump or blow to the head or experience a severe impact to the body that causes their head to be jarred rapidly back and forth.
When this happens, the brain bounces around in your child’s skull, causing chemical changes in the brain that sometimes leads to brain cell damage.
Post-concussion syndrome is when your child has concussion symptoms that last longer than the expected recovery period.
The condition may also be driven by:
Your child may experience a variety of concussion symptoms, including:
Some symptoms go away after a month or may linger for a year or longer.
To make a diagnosis, Newtown Pediatrics looks at many variables that might indicate trauma, ranging from changes in balance to memory lapses and dizziness.
Depending on your child’s symptoms, age, and the severity of the injury, various tests may also be ordered, such as:
Neurological test
Neurological testing assesses motor and sensory skills, the functioning of one or more cranial nerves, hearing and speech, vision, coordination and balance, mental status, and changes in mood or behavior.
CT scans or MRIs
A CT scan or MRI provides more detailed images of your child’s brain and is used to look for suspected bleeding or swelling.
Newtown Pediatrics develops a concussion treatment plan based on your child’s medical history, symptoms, and the severity of their condition.
Most people who sustain a concussion fully recover within a week or two with rest. However, in rare instances, a concussion can result in long-term problems. The quicker the diagnosis, the better the chances for a full recovery.
Your child’s pediatrician may ask you to cut your child’s screen time and avoid driving or other sports activities for the time being. Be sure to help your child get plenty of rest and take breaks from an activity so they’re not overexerting themselves.
To find out how Newton Pediatrics can help with your child’s concussion, call the nearest office or book an appointment online today.