Concussion Education

Look for the following danger signs:

• Headaches that intensify
• Seizures
• Neck pain or unable to turn head
• Unusual behavior change
• Extreme drowsiness
• Repeated vomiting
• Slurred speech
• Unable to recognize people and places
• Increasing confusion
• Weakness or numbness in arms or leg
• Less responsive than usual
• Uneven pupils
• Unable to stand or balance when walking
• Discoloration behind ears
• Fluid discharge from ears of nose
  
   

It is common to have one or many of the following concussion symptoms:

Physical

• Headache
• Nausea/vomiting
• Dizziness
• Balance problems
• Visual problems
• Fatigue
• Sensitivity to light or noise

Cognitive

• Feeling “foggy”
• Feeling “slowed down”
• Difficulty remembering
• Difficulty concentrating

Emotional

• Irritability
• Sadness
• Nervousness

Sleep

• Drowsiness
• Sleeping less
• Sleeping more
• Trouble falling asleep
  
   

Neck strengthening is one of the most important things you can do to help prevent concussion and neck injuries. Strong neck muscles help absorb the impact of blows to the head and can decrease the risk of concussion. Download our guide to neck strengthening exercises. 

Other concussion prevention tips include:

• Always wear seatbelts in the car and buckle children in safety seats.
• Wear a helmet that fits when biking, riding a motorcycle, skating, skiing, horseback riding or playing contact sports. A helmet should be secure and not move when you shake your head, but not be uncomfortably tight.
• Wear a mouthpiece or chin strap for football.
• Prevent falls on stairs by putting up handrails.
• Install safety gates on stairs to protect young children.
• Put grab bars in the bathroom, with nonslip mats in the tub and on floors.
• Improve lighting and remove trip hazards.
• Install safety guards by windows to keep children from falling out.

There are recommended guidelines for athletes and coaches. These include:

• Using the proper sports and personal protective equipment. Equipment must be:
  • The right equipment for the game or activity
  • Worn correctly and be the correct size and fit
  • Used every time you play or practice
  • In good condition
• Insisting that players follow the rules of the game and always display good sportsmanship