Pediatric Trauma

Physical Trauma

Symptoms of physical trauma vary depending on the cause of the event and effect on the body. In addition to the physical impacts like broken bones, cuts and internal organ damage, other symptoms include:

• Shock (sudden drop in blood flow through the body)
• Respiratory failure (not enough oxygen to support your organs)

Psychological Trauma

Some of the common symptoms are listed below, but can vary widely depending on the child, age and the event.  

Birth to 3 years:

• Aggressive or sexualized behavior
• Decrease in play, exploration or mood
• Developmental regression or language delay
• Easily startled
• Eating or sleep disturbances
• General fearfulness or new fears
• Irritable or difficult to soothe
• Repetitive or post-traumatic play
• Separation anxiety
• Sleep disturbances
• Talking about the traumatic event and reacting to triggers

3 years and above:

• Anxious or clingy
• Avoids contact
• Developmental delays
• Distracted or difficulty with problem solving
• General fearfulness or new fears
• Irritability, or aggressive or sexualized behavior
• Physical symptoms (headache, inability to sleep, etc.)
• Poor peer relationships and social problems (controlling/over permissive)
• Repetitive or post-traumatic play
• Restless, impulsive or hyperactive
• Sadness, depression or self-destructive choices