By: Chris Oresic

Concussions

What is a concussion?

• A concussion is an injury to the brain caused by an impact to the head

• Can cause long or short term problems, depending on severity.

How can you get a concussion?

• Contact sports• Car Accidents• Falling• Object hitting your head• Any severe jarring of the head

Symptoms • Altered level of

consciousness (drowsy, hard to arouse, or similar changes)

• Confusion, feeling spacey, or not thinking straight

• Headache

• Loss of consciousness

• Feeling like you have "lost time"

• Memory loss (amnesia) of events before the injury or immediately after

• Nausea and vomiting

• Seeing flashing lights

If you have a concussion you shouldn’t:

• Play contact sports• Participate in physical education• If VERY severe or have multiple concussions in

a few months doctor may recommend:– No TV– No cellphone– No computer

Treatment

• Tylenol (NOT Motrin or Advil) for headahces• Eating a light diet• Light activity around the house NOT heavy

activity• Avoid alcohol until completely recovered

Most Dangerous Sports for Concussions

• Football• Ice Hockey• Rugby• Soccer• Martial Arts• Boxing

Sports & Concussions

• Ice Hockey is the most dangerous. – A study showed there were 27 in 2 seasons

• High school: football, soccer, ice hockey, and rugby have the most concussions

• Professional: ice hockey and rugby have the most.

Video

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fFkWTGKNLT8

Discussion Questions

• Has anyone had a concussion or know someone who had a concussion? How?

• Do you think there should be a limit on the amount of concussions an athlete can sustain before they can no longer participate in contact sports? Why or why not?