Prepare for Concussion Risk in Winter Sports: CDC
SATURDAY, Jan. 22 (HealthDay News) — People involved in winter
sports such as hockey, downhill skiing and snowboarding are at risk for
concussion, so they need to know about prevention and what to do if they
suffer an injury.
Here are some tips from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and
Prevention:
- Wear approved, properly fitted, and well-maintained protective
equipment, such as helmets. - Know the symptoms and danger signs of a concussion, as well as the
potential long-term consequences. - If you are a parent or coach, carry the U.S. Centers for Disease
Control and Prevention’s four-step concussion action plan with you on the
ice and on the slopes. Among other things, the plan will remind you to
remove any young athletes with a concussion from play, have them evaluated
by a medical professional right away, inform their parents about the
concussion, and keep them out of play until a medical professional says
it’s all right for them to return to the slopes or hockey field. - Order a poster developed by the CDC, the National Football League, USA
Hockey, the U.S. Ski and Snowboarding Association, and 12 other national
governing bodies for sports. Display the poster in team locker rooms,
gymnasiums, schools, ice rinks, and competition and tournament
sites.
A concussion can be caused by a bump, blow or jolt to the head, or by a
hit to the body that causes the head and brain to move rapidly back and
forth. Most people with a concussion recover quickly and fully, while
other will have symptoms that last for days or weeks. The effects of more
serious concussions can last for months or a lifetime, according to
experts.
More information
The American Association of Neurological Surgeons has more about concussion.