Sports Concussions: A parent's guide to signs and symptoms, treatment and prevention

Click to view image

VYPE DFW Staff Reporting

A concussion is a brain injury that disrupts normal brain function and is usually caused by a sudden jolt or blow to the head or body. An athlete does not have to be knocked out or have memory loss to have suffered a concussion. In fact, most athletes who suffer a sports-related concussion do not lose consciousness.

SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS
Although you can’t see a concussion, an athlete with any change in behavior, thinking or physical functioning after a blow to the head or body should be suspected of having a concussion.

You may notice that the athlete:
  • Appears dazed or stunned

  • Is confused

  • Forgets plays

  • Is unsure of game, score or opponent

  • Exhibits unsteadiness

  • Moves clumsily

  • Answers questions slowly

  • Loses consciousness

  • Can’t recall events either before or after the injury

  • Is more sleepy or tired than usual

  • Seems sad, nervous, or anxious

  • Is irritable, easily frustrated, or upset

  • Has problems with school performance

The athlete may complain of:
  • Headache

  • Concentration or memory problems

  • Nausea

  • Balance problems or dizziness

  • Double or blurred vision

  • Feelings of being “in a fog” or slowed down

  • Sensitivity to light or noise

  • Confusion

FIRST AID FOR CONCUSSION
  • If the athlete is knocked out, or if there is concern for a neck or spine injury, do not move him. Keep the athlete still until medical help arrives.

  • Any athlete who shows signs or symptoms of a concussion (listed above) should be removed from play immediately.

  • The athlete should not be allowed to return to activity until evaluated by a healthcare professional with experience and training in diagnosis and management of concussions.

  • Do not leave an athlete alone for several hours after a concussion, and watch for any changes or worsening symptoms.

OTHER SYMPTOMS
Any of the following conditions indicate a need for immediate medical attention (as they may be signs of a medical problem other than concussion):

  • A headache that becomes more severe or doesn’t improve with acetaminophen

  • Increasing confusion

  • Extreme sleepiness or trouble waking up

  • Vomiting (more than once)

  • Seizures (convulsions – arms and legs jerk uncontrollably)

  • Trouble walking or talking.

  • Weak or numb arms or legs.

  • Any other sudden change in thinking or behavior.

TREATMENT
The primary treatment for concussion is physical and mental rest.

  • In the first few days, allow plenty of down time and have the athlete avoid activities such as sports, PE, driving, video games and studying (including schoolwork,
watching game film, etc.).

  • Doing too much too soon may worsen symptoms and prolong recovery.

Acetaminophen (Tylenol) may be given for headaches, but no other medications should be given without a doctor’s approval.

RECOVERY
Most athletes with a concussion will recover completely within a few weeks of the initial injury.

RETURN TO PLAY
Before returning to sports, an athlete who has suffered a  concussion should be evaluated by a healthcare professional with experience in managing concussions. Returning to play before complete recovery puts the athlete at risk for a more serious injury. Once an athlete has no symptoms while resting or during everyday activities, he may begin a stepwise return-to-play protocol under the guidance of a healthcare professional.

The Children’s Sports Medicine Center offers the only comprehensive, integrated program in North Texas specifically designed for young and growing athletes.
For more information visit: childrens.com/sportsmedicine

This artilce is presented to you by