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Please check out our 3 minute video on what to do next after sustaining a concussion.
What is a Concussion?
Simply defined, a concussion is a disruption of normal brain function resulting from a blow or jolt to the head or to the body. Think of your brain as suspended in fluid within your skull, the same way a raw egg is suspended in fluid inside an egg shell. With a blow to the head, the brain can “bounce or twist around” inside your skull just like a raw egg. This motion disrupts how your brain functions and can damage nerve cells within your brain. Contrary to popular belief, one does not need to lose consciousness or be “knocked out” for a concussion to occur. In fact, less than 10% of sports-related concussions involve a loss of consciousness.
Signs and symptoms of a concussion
The list of possible concussion signs and symptoms is quite lengthy, however, the athlete often complains of one or more of the following: headache, dizziness, fatigue, nausea, vomiting, disorientation, confusion, difficulty concentrating or feeling “slowed down.” Other signs and symptoms include memory problems, sensitivity to light, sleeping more or less than usual, dilated pupil(s) and balance problems.
Reporting concussion importance
Athletes and parents should understand that reporting a head injury is important in preventing a potential catastrophic event that can result in death or permanent brain injury. In a study published in the Clinical Journal of Sportsmedicine2, it was found that only 47% of concussed high school football players reported their head injuries. Underreporting is often due to a desire to continue playing and not sit out, or a lack of knowledge about concussions. Failure to report a concussion can result in Second Impact Syndrome or prolonged symptoms.
What about school?
Check with your doctor to determine whether or not you should attend school, or if you need any Academic Accommodations. Concussed athletes may need a period of “brain rest” to allow complete recovery. Reading, taking tests, texting, video games, TV viewing and other stimuli may worsen concussion symptoms and prolong recovery. You may need to avoid tests, quizzes or major projects for a period of time, or may need to attend half days of school, or remain home, until given clearance by your doctor.
All concussions must be evaluated by the school athletic trainer and/or a physician before returning to play. Once the athlete is symptom-free, gradual stepwise activity progression is typically followed that is supervised by the athletic training staff. The ImPACT test is also part of the concussion recovery program at Eastern. Please note if your doctor indicates "no concussion" or a return to play procedure that differs from our school policy, it must be approved by our school physician.
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