Attachment 1
CONCUSSION INFORMATION SHEET
This information sheet is provided to assist you in recognizing the signs and symptoms of a concussion. Every athlete is different and responds to a brain injury differently, so seek medical attention if you suspect that you have a concussion. Once a concussion occurs, it is very important for you to return to normal activities slowly so that you do not do further damage to your brain.
What is a Concussion?
A concussion is an injury to the brain that may be caused by a blow, bump, or jolt to the head. Concussions may also happen after a fall or hit that jars the brain. A blow elsewhere on the boy can cause a concussion even if the athlete does not hit his/her head directly. Concussions can range from
mild to severe.
Signs and Symptoms of a Concussion
Athletes do not have to be "knocked out" to have a concussion. In fact, less than 1 out of 10 concussions result in loss of consciousness. Concussion symptoms can develop right away or up to 48 hours after the injury. Ignoring any signs or symptoms of a concussion puts your heath at risk.
Signs Observed by Coaches, Officials
Appears dazed, stunned or confused
Unsure about event, location or name of event
Moves clumsily
Answers questions slowly
Loses consciousness (even briefly)
Shows behavior or personality changes - irritability, sadness, nervousness, emotional Can't recall events before or after incident
Symptoms Reported by Athletes
Any headache or "pressure" in head - how badly it hurts does not matter
Nausea or vomiting
Balance problems or dizziness
Double or blurry vision
Sensitivity to light and/or noise
Feeling sluggish, hazy, foggy or groggy
Concentration or memory problems
Confusion
Does not "feel right"
Trouble falling asleep
Sleeping more or less than usual
Be Honest
It is important that you are honest about how you feel. It is easy to get caught up in the moment or feel pressure to return to the game before you are ready. It is better to miss practice or games to prevent further damage to your brain.
Seek Medical Attention Right Away
Seeking medical attention on the day of the event is an important first step if you suspect a concussion. A qualified health professional will be able to determine how serious the concussion is and when it is safe for you to return to sports and other daily activities:
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No athlete should return to activity on the same day he/she gets a concussion
No athlete may return to training regardless of sport, until he/she is cleared by a health care professional.
The Dangers of Returning Too Soon
Returning to gameplay too early may cause Second Impact Syndrome (SIS) or Post-Concussion Syndrome (PCS). SIS occurs when a second blow to the head happens before an athlete has completely recovered from a concussion. This second impact cause the brain to swell, possibly resulting in brain damage, paralysis, and even death. PCS can occur after a second impact. PCS can result in permanent, long-term concussion symptoms. The risk of SIS and PCS is the reason why no athlete shold be allowed to participate in any physical activity before they are cleared by a qualified health care professional.
Recovery
A concussion can affect work and sports. During the recovery time after a concussion, physical and mental rest is required. A concussion upsets the wy the brain normally workds and cuasue it to work longer and harder to complete even simple tasks. Activities that require concentration and focus may make symptoms worse and cause the brain to heal slower.
Returning to Daily Activities
1. Be sure to get plenty of rest and enough sleep at night.
2. Day-time naps are encouraged if possible.
3. Limit activities that require a lot of thinking or concentration. These activities can slow the
brain's recovery.
4. Limit physical activity, especially those activities where another injury or blow to the head may
occur.
5. Have your qualified health professional check your symptoms at different time to help guide
recovery.
Returning to Practice and Games
1. Returning to practice and games is specific for each person.
2. You should not participate, practice or compete if you have ANY symptoms.
3. Make sure that you coach and trainers are aware of your current condition and any symptoms
that you are still experiencing.
4. You should complete a step-by-step exercise-based progression, under the direction of a
qualified healthcare professional.
Resources
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention