What is a concussion?
A concussion is a brain injury that is caused by a bump or blow to the head. Even what seems to be a mild bump or blow to the head can be serious. Signs and symptoms of a concussion can show up right after an injury or may not appear or be noticed until days or weeks after the injury.
Concussions take time to heal. Returning to play while the brain is still healing increases the risk of having a second concussion. Second or subsequent concussions can cause permanent brain damage.
Athletes should proactively minimize the risk of a concussion by:
- following the coach’s rules for safety and the rules of the sport.
- practicing good sportsmanship.
- wearing the right protective equipment for the activity (such as shin guards). Protective equipment should fit properly, be well maintained, and be worn consistently and correctly.
- knowing the signs and symptoms of a concussion.
It is the responsibility of both the parent or legal guardian and athlete to understand the signs and symptoms of a concussion and to report them to athletic staff. Signs and symptoms are:
- appears dazed, stunned or disoriented; demonstrates decreased alertness
- has trouble with short-term memory
- forgets an instruction
- is unsure of game, score or opponent
- moves clumsily, has problems with balance or dizziness
- answers questions slowly or slurs words
- loses consciousness (even briefly)
- has behavioral or personality changes
- can’t recall events prior to the incident
- can’t recall events after to the incident
- experiences seizures, nausea, or vomiting
- has a headache or feels “pressure” in head
- has double or blurry vision
- is bothered by light or noise
- feels sluggish, hazy, foggy or groggy
- has difficulty paying attention
- feels “not right”
If you suspect a concussion:
- Both parents and coach should be informed of any bump or blow to the head.
- If a concussion is suspected, seek medical attention right away. A healthcare professional will be able to decide how serious the concussion is and when it is safe for the athlete to return to sports participation.
- Both parents and coach should be informed of any recent concussion.
- Because of the elevated risk of permanent injury, priority should be given to allowing the brain to fully heal after a concussion.
Return To Practice and Play (RTP)
- An athlete who has been removed from play due to a suspected concussion or other head injury must be evaluated by a physician and be cleared to return to play and practice.
- An athlete determined to be concussed may not return to play on the same day of injury. The will be contacted and counseled regarding management of the injury.
- An athlete with a suspected concussion is to be released to the direct care of the parent unless emergency transportation is necessary.
- An athlete who has been cleared to return to practice or play must submit to athletic staff both an appropriate graduated RTP protocol from the physician and any specific instructions concerning classroom work.
- The athletic director reserves the right to require a physician’s note for any head injury even if a concussion is not suspected. The note must state when the student is cleared to return to practice and play.