How to Spot a Concussion After a Fall

Learn the warning signs of a concussion in children and adults after a fall or head injury.

1. Immediate Signs to Watch For. Right after a fall, look for these warning signs: loss of consciousness (even briefly), confusion or seeming dazed, vomiting, severe headache, difficulty staying awake, or trouble recognizing people or places. Your child might also seem unsteady on their feet, have slurred speech, or appear unusually irritable or restless. Don't wait if you see any of these signs - seek medical attention immediately.
2. Signs That May Appear Hours Later. Concussion symptoms can show up hours or even days after the initial injury. Watch for persistent or worsening headaches, repeated vomiting, increased confusion, unusual drowsiness, or difficulty waking up from sleep. Your child might also have trouble concentrating, seem more emotional than usual, or complain that lights or noise bother them more than normal. Changes in eating or sleeping patterns are also red flags.
3. What to Do Right After the Fall. Keep your child awake and alert for the first few hours after the injury so you can monitor their symptoms. Have them rest from physical activities, screen time, and anything that requires concentration. Don't give pain medication unless approved by a doctor, as it can mask important symptoms. Take notes about what you observe - this information will be helpful if you need to seek medical care.
4. Monitoring in the Following Days. Continue watching your child closely for 24-48 hours after the fall. Check on them periodically during sleep to make sure they're breathing normally and can be easily awakened. Look for any changes in behavior, mood, or physical abilities. Even if they seemed fine initially, new symptoms can emerge, so stay vigilant and trust your parental instincts if something seems off.