Health Tip: Help Prevent a Concussion
(HealthDay News) — A concussion is a brain injury that usually
occurs from a violent blow to the head. People who participate in contact
sports are particularly prone to this type of injury.
Symptoms of concussion may include: drowsiness, headache, loss of
consciousness, memory loss, confusion, dizziness and difficulty
communicating. Players who show any of these symptoms need immediate
medical care and should not return to play until all of these symptoms
subside and a physician clears them.
The American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons offers these suggestions
to help reduce the likelihood of concussion:
- Always wear appropriate protective gear, such as a helmet. Although no
gear is completely concussion-proof, it helps to have as much protection
as possible. - Always abide by all rules of the sport.
- Encourage leagues and coaches participating in sports that allow
head-first contact to consider rule changes.