Concussion
A concussion is a head injury that causes a temporary loss of normal brain function. It is sometimes called a “brain bruise.” Direct or indirect head trauma produces a concussion . It may or may not cause loss of consciousness. Therefore, if you are not knocked unconscious, you may have still suffered a concussion.
Common symptoms that occur include:
- Headache
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Dizziness
- Poor balance
Any person suspected of suffering a concussion should be immediately removed from competition. They should NEVER be allowed to return to play the same day. Proper evaluation by a medical professional is required prior to an athlete’s return. New research has revealed that adolescents may suffer significant problems with concentration and memory even if their concussion symptoms clear up within 15 minutes. If an athlete returns too soon, they are 10 times more likely to suffer another concussion. Coming back too early may result in another concussion, placing the athlete at risk for irreversible brain damage, or even sudden death. This is called Second Impact Syndrome.
Indications for sending an athlete to the emergency room include:
If an athlete seems to improve on the sidelines and does not develop any of the above problems, they can be sent home with a parent.
Parents should be instructed to do the following:
1. Watch for any of the above signs or symptoms. If they develop, go to ER.
2. Wake the athlete every 2-3 hours to check on them. Ask the athlete some basic questions about their symptoms, where they are, what happened, etc….Also assess the athlete’s ability to move all four extremities. If abnormal, go to the ER.
3. See a qualified physician or Rainbow Sports Medicine specialist for assessment within 24-48 hours to determine their condition and receive guidance on appropriate return to sports. No athlete should return to sports until cleared by a qualified physician.