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Concussions: What You Should Know

Football Player_on_the_benchConcussions have been a growing topic of concern in sports. A concussion can happen in any sport or recreational activity.  It is important for coaches, parents and athletes to learn the signs and symptoms of concussions and what to do if one occurs. 

What is a concussion?

  • A concussion is a brain injury
  • It is caused by a blow to the head, a jolt to the body, or any sudden force that results in the breain crashing into the skull
  • The terms "ding" or "getting your bell rung" minimize concussions, even what seems to be a mild bump or blow to the head can be serious
  • Most concussions occur withour loss of consciousness

 

What are the symptoms?

You cannot see a concussion. Therefore, it can be very difficult to determine whether or not someone has a concussion. Symptoms do not always appear right away. They may not become present for hours, days, weeks or months and can last for just as long. Some people do not always recognize or admit that they are having symptoms of a concussion.

Symptoms of a concussion generally fall into four categories:

Thinking and Remembering Physical Emotional and Mood Sleep
  • Not thinking clearly

  • Feeling slowed down

  • Trouble concentrating

  • Not being able to
    remember new information
  • Headache

  • Fuzzy or blurry vision

  • Nausea and vomiting

  • Dizziness

  • Sensitivity to light or
    noise

  • Balance Problems

  • Feeling tired or having no energy

 
  • Easily upset or angered

  • Sad

  • Nervous or anxious

  • More emotional
  • Sleeping more than usual

 

  • Sleeping less than usual

 

  • Having a hard time falling asleep

 

If someone may have sustained a concussion, they should be examined by a medical professional (Physician, EMT, or Athletic Trainer). Sometimes a hospital stay for monitoring is recommended, otherwise most people are sent home for monitoring. Contact a medical professional or emergency department right away if you are monitoring someone or someone exhibits the following danger signs after bump, blow or jolt to the body.

  • Headache that gets worse and does not go away
  • Weakness, numbness, or decreased coordination
  • Repeated vomiting or nausea
  • Slurred speech
  • Extreme drowsiness or someone who cannot be awakened
  • Convulsions or seizures
  • Problem recognizing people or places
  • Increased confusion, restlessness, or agitation
  • Loss of consciousness

 

Treatment:

Individuals who have sustained a concussion should rest and avoid activity that could potentially increase their symptoms:

  • Overly active activity including exercise
  • Sports
  • Recess
  • Physical Education class
  • Extended computer use
  • Prolonged Reading
  • Watching TV or playing video games

 

When an individual is ready to return to activity they should consult with their physician or Certified Athletic Trainer about specific return to play protocols.

In rare cases, mostly in adolescents, if someone returns to activity before being completely symptom free of a concussion and sustains then another blow to the head, they could suffer from a very serious condition called Second Impact Syndrome. Second Impact Syndrome can cause severe brain injury and can be fatal. It is important for any individual that may have sustained a concussion to be fully evaluated and cleared by the appropriate medical professional.