cuncussions: Do I have one?

[moonrunner4life]

HI! I 14 years old and I horseback ride. Earlier today I fell of my horese while cantering, and my helmet fell off before I landed. But, unfortunatly, I landed on the back of my head. Do I have a cuncussion?

I have a bad headache
My shoulders are stiff, and my neck
I am really tired

Help Please!
And IF I do have one, What should I do BESIDES going to a doctor, I don't want to scare my parents.

[DrNoopurMD]

Hi,

Thanks for writing in.
I am afraid but if your headache continues and if you get symptoms like vomiting and dizziness you will have to get yourself checked by a doctor.
I would suggest you to take rest and OTC pain killers for pain and stiffness. You can also apply cold compresses to the head and neck. Please watch out for symptoms like dizziness, and vomiting.
Please remember it is always better to get yourself evaluated by a doctor after head injury. Take care!

[toadaleh]

Hi,

I understand that you don't want to freak your parents out, but the first thing you MUST do if you have a severe blow to the head is get yourself to the doctor.  Concussion is a potentially serious trauma, and although your folks may be mad at you, they would be devistated if something worse hapened and they thought you hadn't told them you'd had an accident.
Good luck