The material below is suggested reading for parents and players to better understand concussions and head injuries. Coaches, parents and players must work together to ensure the safety of a player that may have a head injury. None of the information on this page should replace the evaluation and guidance of a trained medical professional.
Signs and Symptoms of Concussions
Athlete May Report or Coach or Parent May Observe
Diagnosis
Diagnosis of a concussion is determined through clinical examination. By definition, all imaging tests, such as CT scan and MRI, appear normal.
Treatments/Management of Injury
When anyone sustains a concussion, the main objective is to keep the exertion to the brain to a minimum. This will keep the gap of supply and demand to a minimum. This includes no physical exertion (running, biking), no extreme visual stimulus (texting, video games), limited cognitive stress (exams in schools), and altered food and drink intake (no spicy foods, no alcohol).
Prognosis
The prognosis for a concussion that is properly managed is good. However, if the concussion is not managed appropriately, the athlete may have lingering side effects for weeks to months to years.
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