Sports Medicine - Concussion

A concussion is caused by a blow to the head, face, neck, or somewhere else on the body that causes the head and brain to move rapidly back and forth.

• True

• False

Falls, motor vehicle accidents and sports injuries are the most common reasons for concussion.

• True

• False

If you get concussed, you are not at risk for getting another brain injury and it is safe to return to play

• Yes

• No

Which is not a sign of a concussion.

• Poor balance or coordination

• Slow or slurred speech

• Enhanced concentration

• Delayed responses to questions

• Sleep disturbance

Which is not a physical symptom of a Concussion

• Headache

• Blurred vision

• Nausea/vomiting

• Dizziness; lack of balance

• Lack of smell

What is a cognitive impact of a concussion?

• Clarity of thought

• Inability to think clearly, confusion and inability to concentrate

• Being able to organize better

What is an Emotional impact of being concussed?

• Feeling friendly

• Looking to make new friends

• Easily irritated, sadness and nervousness or anxiety

Having a concussion can cause sleep problems, like.

• Insomnia

• Difficultly falling to sleep

• No change in sleep pattern

Why is a concussion difficult to diagnose? check all that apply

• No visible injury like a broken bone or bruise - can mean it goes undetected

• Symptoms can take weeks/months to appear and may appear in stages; may be a little different for everyone

• Concussed individuals may not recognize or admit to having symptoms

• Actually you can take a simple test to accurately diagnose a concussion

If you suspect a person has a concussion (check all that apply)

• Remove the individual from any activity. Symptoms may worsen after the event.

• Do not leave the individual alone; monitor signs and symptoms.

• The individual should be evaluated by a medical doctor or nurse practitioner as soon as possible.

• The individual must not return to activity until receiving medical clearance by a physician.

• If the game is important have them return to play to take one for the team