A Concussion is a Brain Injury!

What is a concussion?

Concussions are a type of traumatic brain injury (TBI) caused by a blow or jolt to the head. The injury can range from mild to severe and can disrupt the way a brain normally works.

An athlete does not need to lose consciousness to sustain a concussion. You cannot see a concussion but you might notice some of the symptoms right away. Other symptoms can show up days or weeks after the injury. It is best to see a health care professional if you think you might have a concussion. An undiagnosed concussion can affect your abilities at school or work and in everyday activities.

SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS OF CONCUSSIONS:

• Nausea (feeling that you might vomit)
• Dizziness or balance problems
• Double or fuzzy vision
• Sensitivity to light or noise
• Headache
• Feeling sluggish or tired
• Feeling groggy or foggy
• Confusion
• Trouble concentrating
• Trouble remembering

The presence of one or more of these symptoms are only signs that you may have had a concussion. But it is not a definitive sign that you have experienced a concussion.

IF YOU’VE HAD A CONCUSSION

• Never ignore a bump to the head.
• Tell your coach or teammates.
• Ask to be taken out of the game.
• Pay attention to physical changes.
• Watch out for thinking problems.
• Talk to your parents or teachers about the troubles you’re having.
• See a health care professional.
• Get plenty of rest.
• Return to practice and play only after your brain is healed and your health care professional says it’s okay.