Concussion Information

Concussions

Concussions sustained by participants in sports activities are an ongoing concern at all levels. If it is determined that a concussion has occurred, the student-athlete shall not be allowed to return to participation that day regardless of how quickly the signs or symptoms of the concussion resolve; and shall be kept from activity until a physician indicates they are symptom free and gives clearance to return to activity as described below. A coach of an interscholastic athletics team may not authorize a student’s return to play.

Definition of Concussion - means a complex pathophysiological process affecting the brain caused by a traumatic physical force or impact to the head or body, which may: (A) include temporary or prolonged altered brain function resulting in physical, cognitive, or emotional symptoms or altered sleep patterns; and (B) involve loss of consciousness.

Signs and Symptoms of Concussion – The signs and symptoms of concussion may include but are not limited to: Headache, appears to be dazed or stunned, tinnitus (ringing in the ears), fatigue, slurred speech, nausea or vomiting, dizziness, loss of balance, blurry vision, sensitive to light or noise, feel foggy or groggy, concentration or memory problems, or confusion.

Signs observed by parents, friends, teachers or coaches may include: appears dazed or stunned; is confused about what to do; forgets plays; is unsure of game, score or opponent; moves clumsily; answers questions slowly; loses consciousness; shows behavior or personality changes; can’t recall events prior to hit; can’t recall events after hit.

Any one or group of symptoms may appear immediately and be temporary, delayed (even days) and long lasting. The appearance of any one of these symptoms should alert the responsible personnel to the possibility of concussion.

Concussion Protocol

When a student-athletes displays signs and symptoms of a concussion after contact with another player, a ball, ground or equipment s/he will be removed from play. If a home contest, the AT will evaluate; if at an away event the Coach will remove the player and ask the hosting AT to help assess the player.

Once the student-athlete as been removed, their parent(s) will be contacted and informed of their status. Not all concussions affect student-athletes the same way. Most will require a morning after visit with the RHS AT's for further evaluation.

Once determined the student-athlete is concussed, parents will need to set up an appointment with their primary care physician or a concussion specialist. The RHS AT's will communicate with the student-athletes teachers and send follow up instructions as we receive them from you and the physician.

When the student-athlete is sign and symptom free and has been cleared by the physician to begin the return to play (RTP), the AT's will facilitate the protocol. Upon completion parent(s) will need to sign and return the UIL Concussion Management Form. The student-athlete should always follow up if they have any issues.