Concussions in children are frequently underreported, early and accurate diagnosis is essential, as appropriate management can significantly improve outcomes. If left untreated, concussion can persist for many months, resulting in poor academic performance and increased anxiety at home. .
The information on this page covers essential information for parents and guardians, including key signs and symptoms to watch for and guidance on when to seek medical attention.
Common causes of concussion in children vs adults
Concussion occurs when energy is transferred to the brain—either directly from a blow to the head or indirectly, such as through a whiplash-type motion. Loss of consciousness is not required for a concussion diagnosis. In fact, most people who are concussed do not lose consciousness. Even a seemingly minor impact can lead to symptoms.
Children may be more vulnerable to concussions due to less developed neck muscles and comparatively large heads, which reduce children’s ability to stabilise the head during rapid head movements.
Concussion symptoms in children
Concussion presents as a collection of symptoms, which can include:
- Headache
- Difficulty concentrating
- Sensitivity to light and/or sound
- A feeling of being “in a fog”
- Sleep disturbances
- Poor balance
- Memory loss related to the incident
Not all symptoms are experienced by every child. This variability makes expert assessment crucial to ensure appropriate care.
Concussion symptoms in young children
Identifying a concussion in very young children can be challenging, especially if they’re unable to communicate how they feel. In these cases, your consultant will need to relay on parents or caregivers to observe and report any changes in the child’s behaviour. If there’s any noticeable difference following a recent head injury, it’s important to consult a doctor promptly.
A common sign of concussion in children is excessive sleepiness. If a parent has any concerns, they should take their child to the Accident and Emergency (A&E) department. Once assessed and discharged, it’s important to follow the hospital’s guidance—this may include allowing the child to sleep while waking them periodically to monitor their condition. In most cases, concussion symptoms are mild, manageable at home, and children recover spontaneously.
Concussion in sport
Concussions are more common in contact sports like rugby, but they can occur in any sport. Professor Loosemore has seen cases resulting from activities as varied as ice skating and badminton. If your child has received a blow to the head and is behaving unusually, seek medical evaluation immediately. In most cases (over 90%), concussion symptoms resolve within two weeks without intervention. Our clinic typically sees patients if symptoms persist beyond this period
What to expect when a child visits the ISEH Concussion Clinic:
During an appointment at the ISEH Concussion Clinic, your child (from aged 12-18) will be seen by Professor Mike Loosemore MBE, an internationally renowned specialist in Sport and Exercise Medicine, who brings extensive expertise in managing concussion-related conditions.
What will happen during an appointment:
- Take a comprehensive medical history
- Perform assessments on memory, concentration, and balance. (see image)
- Conduct a neurological examination. Including eye and neck movements.
- An exercise test to assess autonomic function
- Examination of the neck to check for neck injury and cervical proprioception
- Test reaction time
- Recommend brain and/or neck imaging if appropriate.
Treatment recommendations follow this evaluation. Medication is generally avoided, especially in children. Instead, tailored advice is given on balancing rest and exercise, with specific exercises prescribed to help reset visual and vestibular (balance) pathways. Patients are reassessed as needed, with ongoing support provided until recovery is complete.
Worried about a concussion?
If your child has sustained a blow to the head and is showing concerning symptoms, prompt medical assessment is essential. Should symptoms persist, the ISEH Concussion Clinic is here to help.
Book an Appointment
The ISEH is internationally renowned for its expertise in concussion management. We are also highly regarded for our care of adolescent athletes aged 12 to 18 (under the case of Professor Mike Loosemore MBE), particularly those whose concussions have adversely affected their quality of life, academic performance, and participation in extracurricular activities –
With a career dedicated to the care and rehabilitation of both elite and recreational athletes—as well as non-athletic patients of all ages—Professor Loosemore MBE is also a prominent leader in concussion research and a strong advocate for incorporating exercise into medical treatment plans.
Professor Mike Loosemore MBE sees both private and NHS patients at the ISEH in Central London and has extensive experience managing and treating concussion in children and adults.
Private appointments:
To book an appointment at the ISEH Concussion Clinic please contact:
Tel: +44 (0)20 3447 2800 Email: ISEHConcussionService@hcahealthcare.co.uk
NHS Appointments:
Please speak with your GP for a referral.
