Concussion in Teens

Medically reviewed by Jacqueline Turner, MSN, APRN-NP, FNP-BC, Advanced Practice Registered Nurse-Nurse Practitioner who specializes in concussion and sports injury diagnosis and treatment. 

What is a concussion?

A concussion is a mild traumatic brain injury caused by a blow, bump or jolt to the head — or a hit to the body strong enough to make the brain move quickly back and forth inside the skull. Millions of children in the U.S. sustain one every year. Because their brains are still developing, kids and teens face a higher risk of complications than adults do.

Signs and Symptoms of Concussions in Teens 

Symptoms can appear immediately or show up hours (even days) later, and brain scans usually look normal even when symptoms are present. Headache is the most common sign. Watch for:

• Headache
• Nausea  
• Dizziness
• Change in vision or hearing  
• Sensitivity to light or noise  
• Fatigue
• Sleep disturbances
• Difficulty with attention, concentration or memory
• Sensory changes or shifts in mood and behavior

Common Causes of Concussion in Teens 

Many concussions are sports-related (e.g., football, hockey, soccer, gymnastics, wrestling), but concussions can also happen as a result of: 

• Falls and trips
• Bicycle or motor vehicle accidents
• Physical altercations and roughhousing
• Accidental blows to the head such as objects falling on the head, or hitting head on lockers, doors, wall, etc.

Preventing Concussions and Head Injuries in Teens

Primary Prevention (Reducing Initial Risk) 

• Rule Modifications & Enforcement:
  • No body checking in youth ice hockey under age 13 (reduces concussion risk) 
  • Proper tackling techniques in football (e.g., USA Football’s Heads Up Program)
  • Discouraging aggressive playing styles 
• Protective Equipment & Conditioning:
  • Wear sport-specific, properly fitted helmets (not concussion-proof but protective)
  • Strengthening neck muscles (reduces concussion risk)

Secondary Prevention (Reducing Severity & Recovery Time) 

• Immediate Response & Medical Evaluation:
  • Remove athletes from play immediately after a suspected concussion
  • Rest from contact sports until evaluated by a pediatric sports medicine specialist 
• Safe Return to Play:
  • No return to high-risk activities until full recovery
  • All concussion symptoms must return to pre-injury levels before resuming play 

Rest and Recovery from a Concussion

Concussion treatment should be based on the teen's symptoms and needs and may require evaluation by pediatric sports medicine specialists. In general, here is how to recover from a concussion: 

• Initial Rest & Gradual Activity:
  • First 24-48 hours: Cognitive and physical rest
  • Gradual return to school and activities as tolerated
  • Light aerobic activity can be beneficial (reduces symptoms, shortens recovery) 
• Preventing Additional Injury:
  • Avoid repeat concussions to prevent worsened symptoms and delayed recovery
  • Address any sleep dysfunction, as sleep is critical for healing
• Recovery Timeline:
  • Most concussions resolve within four weeks
  • 20-30% of cases have symptoms persisting beyond four weeks
  • Prolonged recovery requires specialized, multidisciplinary care (e.g., Lurie Children’s Concussion Program)  

When to See a Doctor After a Concussion

Most concussions resolve within a few weeks without long-term effects, but some symptoms may persist, especially in adolescents and those with underlying anxiety. If your child or teen continues to experience symptoms beyond the typical recovery period, seeking specialized care can ensure they receive the appropriate treatment.

Since concussions can impact cognitive function and school performance, Lurie Children’s Pediatric Concussion Program is designed to provide both academic support and guidance on safely returning to physical activities. The team collaborates with schools to facilitate a smooth transition back to the classroom and sports, ensuring patients receive the necessary care.

If you have concerns about whether your child should continue participating in sports, an evaluation is recommended. Learn more about Lurie Children’s Pediatric Concussion Program, including how to make an appointment.
 
 

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