Toddler or Preschool Concussion
In young children, it can be more difficult to recognize that a brain injury has occurred.
Symptoms of a concussion in toddlers and preschoolers can include:
- Fussiness or irritability
- Decreased appetite
- Decreased activity
- Temporary regression in previously-attained developmental skills
- Changes in sleep patterns are common
- Inattention and problems short-term memory can occur
If you suspect your toddler or preschooler has sustained a concussion, take the following steps:
- Rest is the best initial treatment
- During the recovery period, it is important to keep as normal a routine as possible with more time for naps and sleep
- Do not allow your young child to return to extra physical activities (gymnastics and other sports, dance, etc.) outside of their normal play until after their symptoms have disappeared
- THEN, gradually reintegrate more vigorous activity and monitor for symptoms like complaints of head pain or tummy aches, increased fussiness, or sleepiness
- Parents, daycare providers, and preschool teachers should carefully monitor the child after the injury
- If you have concerns, follow up with your primary care physician or pediatrician. If you do not have a primary care physician or your primary care physician does not provide concussion management, Salina Regional Health Center has several physicians trained in concussion management:
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- Drs. Gary Williams, Garrett Hooker and Brad Irvin, COMCARE Ohio (785) 825-8221
- Drs. Ben Dolezal and Wendy Dinkel, Lindsborg Family Health Care Clinic, (785) 227-3371
- Drs. Matthew Pyle and Kevin Klug, Salina Regional Orthopedic and Sports Medicine, 520 S. Santa Fe, Suite 400, (785) 452-7366
- Salina Pediatric Care, 501 S. Santa Fe, Suite 100, (785)825-2273
Seek Emergency Evaluation:
- If any of the symptoms get significantly WORSE rather than better
- If new symptoms appear after a few days
- If the child starts vomiting
- If the child is difficult to arouse
Signs & Symptoms of a Concussion