Second-impact syndrome: What parents need to know
Many children ignore mild concussion symptoms but continued activity with a mild concussion increases the risk of a second injury.
Head injuries in children are common, and many of them are, fortunately, minor. However, doctors are becoming increasingly concerned about a condition known as second-impact syndrome.
According to studies, if a child hits their head again before the first injury heals, the second injury can be more severe. Second-impact syndrome can be fatal in rare cases.
Signs of second-impact syndrome
If your child has suffered a head injury, it is critical that parents keep an eye out for the following symptoms right away and for several weeks afterwards:
- Confused speech
- Lethargy
- Blurred or double vision
- Difficulty with balance or walking
- Vomiting
- Headaches
- Pupils that are larger than normal or of unequal size
According to Anatoly Belilovsky, a paediatrician in Brooklyn, New York, even the mildest form can cause fatigue and headaches that last for days after the injury has occurred. Serious ones frequently cause a child to have sleeping problems and behavioural issues and can impair their ability to concentrate in school.
What to do if you suspect your child has second-impact syndrome?
If you suspect your child may have second-impact syndrome, take them to your healthcare provider immediately. The doctor will perform a basic neurological exam to check your child’s vision, hearing, reflexes, and balance.
If the doctor suspects a more serious injury based on the history or exam, they may order a CT scan to look for a subdural hematoma.
Good to know: Children who have had a concussion should avoid playing any contact sport until their healthcare provider has said it is safe to do so. Children should return for a follow-up visit after a few days to see if the side effects persist.
How to prevent concussions caused by sports
According to a new study published in Pediatrics, emergency room visits for children aged eight to 13 more than doubled in 10 years, from 3,800 in 1997 to 7,800 in 2007.
We’re all aware that, despite our best efforts, we can’t be with our children at all times. However, we can employ basic safety precautions.
Insist that your child wears properly-fitting sports gear (shin guards, mouth guards, ankle braces, shoes with rubber cleats). When your child rides their bicycle or scooter, make it a rule that they have to wear a helmet. For younger children learning how to walk, be cautious about putting safety gates across open stairwells. Install nonslip mats in bathtubs and window guards.
