Concussion Care
Sometimes rough collisions can happen on the field, and, despite wearing a helmet, concussions can occur. Concussion is a type of traumatic brain injury caused by a bump, blow or jolt to the head. They can also occur from a blow to the body that causes the head and brain to move quickly back and forth, causing the brain to bounce around or twist within the skull.
Most concussions occur without the loss of consciousness, and, signs and symptoms of concussion can sometimes be delayed days or weeks after the injury.
Here are a few facts:
Athletes who experience a concussion at any point in their lives are at an increased risk for another concussion.
Young children and teens are more likely to get a concussion than adults and they take longer to recover than adults.
Concussions affect each person differently and the amount of time the brain needs to heal is different for every person.
Rest is key to recovery after suffering a concussion. Because concussion affect the brain and the brain powers the entire body, exercising or activities that involve a lot of concentration from the brain, like studying, may cause concussion symptoms to reappear or get worse.
Repeated concussions in young athletes can result in brain swelling or permanent damage to the brain. Some concussions are fatal.
Concussion Symptoms
Concussion symptoms observed by coaches and reported by athletes are somewhat different, as reported by the Tennessee Secondary Sports Athletic Association (TSSAA):Observed by Coach/Staff
Confusion about assignment or position
Forgets instruction
Unsure of game, score or opponent
Moves clumsily
Loss of consciousness
Personality and mood changes
Cannot recall events before/after the hit/fall
Reported by Athletes
Nausea, vomiting, balance problems
Double or blurry vision, dizziness
Sensitivity to light or noise
Feels sluggish or groggy
Concentration or memory problems
Confusion
Feeling "down" or "not right"
If you suspect a concussion seek medical care with a physician or specialist with concussion training. Symptoms such as loss of consciousness (no matter how long), slurred speech, pupils unequal in size, cannot be awakened, seizures and a headache that won�t go away, but gets worse, seek immediate care at the nearest emergency room.
The motto for coaches, trainers and parents should be, �When in doubt, take them out.�