A concussion is a type of traumatic brain injury that is caused by a blow to the head or body, a fall, or another injury that shakes the brain inside the skull. Temporary loss of consciousness or passing out is one sign of a concussion, but other signs may not be so obvious such as poor concentration and headache…etc.

Head trauma is very common in young children. But concussions can be difficult to recognize in infants and toddlers because they can't readily communicate how they feel. Nonverbal clues of a concussion may include:

• Lethargy, tiring easily
• Irritability, crankiness
• Change in eating or sleeping patterns
• Lack of interest in favorite toys
• Loss of balance, unsteady walking

The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that you call your child's doctor for advice if your child receives anything more than a light bump on the head. If your child remains alert, moves normally and responds to you, the injury is probably mild and usually doesn't need further testing. In this case, if your child wants to nap, it's OK to let them sleep.

Seek emergency care for anyone who experiences a head injury and:

• A loss of consciousness lasting more than a minute
• Repeated vomiting
• Seizures
• Obvious difficulty with mental function or physical coordination
• Symptoms that worsen over time