Transcript Concussions
Concussions *A traumatic brain injury which results in a temporary disruption of normal brain function *Occurs when the brain is violently rocked back and forth or twisted inside the skull as a result of a blow to the head or body Signs of Concussions • • • • • • Dazed, stunned or confused Answers questions slowly Moves clumsily Behavior or personality changes Memory loss Loss of consciousness (less than 10%) Symptoms of Concussions • • • • • • • • Headache Nausea Balance problems Dizziness Double or fuzzy vision Feeling sluggish or groggy Concentration or memory problems Confusion If an athlete is suspected of having a concussion: • The athlete should be removed from play • The athlete must be evaluated by a health care professional (Physician, Physician assistant, Osteopath, Athletic Trainer licensed by the Virginia Board of Medicine, Neuropsychologist licensed by the Board of Psychology, or a Nurse practitioner licensed by the Virginia State Board of Nursing.) • Parent or guardian will be informed by the coach • If a possible concussion occurs outside of sportsinform the athlete’s coach Medical Emergencies • • • • • • • When an athlete needs immediate medical attention: Any loss of consciousness Decreasing levels of consciousness Unable to be awakened Breathing irregularity Severe or worsening headache Persistent vomiting Seizures To Recover from a Concussion • • • • Rest! Let teachers know at school-academics can be affected Get plenty of sleep Limit brain stimulation Computer Video games Texting Television • ***No athlete should return to contact competitive sports until they are symptom free, both at rest and with exercise and have normal neurocognitive testing Return to Play Athletes sustaining a concussion will not be allowed to return to play until: • Cleared by a health care professional • All symptoms are resolved with rest and exercise Risks of Returning to Play to Soon • Most athletes recover in 1-2 weeks • Up to 10% of athletes have prolonged symptoms including headache, difficulty concentrating, poor memory and sleep problems • If return before healed athletes are at risk for: • • • • Repeat concussion Slower recovery Increased long term problems Severe swelling in the brain that can cause death Strategies to Reduce the Risk of Concussions: • Knowing & Understanding Signs/Symptoms of a concussion through Education. • Early reporting of possible concussion to Coach, Parent, and/or Athletic Trainer. • Practicing proper technique & form of Sports Specific Skills needed in the specific sport. • Practicing Good Sportsmanship • Wear proper equipment • Helmets properly fitted • Mouth guards properly worn & fitted If head injury is suspected: • The athlete will follow up with their physician to determine the return to play and the physician will complete the Follow Up Physician Form To Review • If an athlete is experiencing any signs or symptoms of a concussion-inform the coach • Athletes cannot return to play without being cleared by a health care professional and being symptom free It’s better to miss one game than the whole season QUESTIONS? • WWW.CDC.GOV/CONCUSSIONINYOUTHSPORTS • WWW.NFHS.ORG