Concussions

Child holding his head

What is a Concussion?

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 jars or shakes the brain inside the skull. Although there may be cuts or bruises on the head or face, there may be no other visible signs of a brain injury.

Signs and Symptoms

Your child may have a concussion if they experience some of these signs and symptoms:

  • Loses consciousness (even briefly)
  • May be confused
  • May complain of a headache
  • May vomit
  • Moves clumsily
  • Can’t recall events just prior to or just after a hit or fall
  • Shows behavior or personality changes
  • Appears dazed

If your child has a concussion:

  • Pull them out of the game
  • Seek medical attention right away
  • Keep them out of the game until medically cleared by their provider
  • Concussions take time to heal, so don’t rush the recovery process

What is a Concussion?

Concussion Clinic - Heads Up - Eye Exam

Learn more about concussion causes

Signs & Symptoms

Concussion Clinic - Heads Up - Signs and Symptoms

Learn more about the signs and symptoms of a concussion

Prevention

Child smiling and wearing a safety helmet

Create a safe environment and encourage safe practices.

ThinkFirst: Injury Prevention

ThinkFirst for Kids and Teens

To inquire about booking this free outreach program for your school group, contact us at 1-805-687-7444. You may also visit thinkfirst.org for more information.

ThinkFirst

Cottage Rehabilitation Hospital is home of the Santa Barbara County chapter of ThinkFirst for Kids and Teens.

Healthcare professionals who treat patients with traumatic injuries have developed and implemented ThinkFirst over the last 20 years in an attempt to prevent young people from sustaining brain and spinal cord injuries.

Young people take risks and disproportionately sustain brain and spinal cord injuries. Four common causes of brain and spinal cord injuries are:

  • Motor Vehicle Crashes
  • Falls
  • Sports
  • Violence

ThinkFirst for Kids and Teens educates elementary and secondary school students to think first, to use good judgment to minimize risk of injury as they play, explore and choose activities.

Concussion Clinic Location

Goleta Valley Cottage Hospital Medical Office Building

5333 Hollister Ave.
Goleta, CA 93111
805-879-4240

Watch and Learn

Concussion YouTube Video - Dr. Stephen KaminskiSports Related Brain Injury and Concussion - Stephen Kaminski, MD, the Medical Director of Trauma Services at Santa Barbara Cottage Hospital discusses sports related brain injuries and what is being done to treat concussions.

Watch Video