Concussion in sports and traumatic injuries to the head can have serious repercussions on your child’s brain function and development if the injured brain tissues are not given adequate time to heal before return to play.
A concussion is a brain injury and it is also important to note that it can occur without losing consciousness.
A concussion may result from a forceful blow to the body or the head that results in rapid movement of the head.
While concussions will heal themselves with adequate recovery, research has shown that memory problems can result if they are not. In 2009, a study commissioned by the American National Football League found that retired players were 19 times more likely to develop severe memory problems than people in the same age group. The single most significant causative factor was continued play after repeated head injuries.
Parents should be aware if their children are showing any of the signs in the table below after sporting activities or head trauma, the child should refrain from any physical activities until medical advice is sought.
It is also prudent that the symptoms observed by you or reported by the child have subsided completely before returning to sports. It may take anywhere from 7-14 days or more for a full recovery
However, any change in the child’s behaviour after a head injury should be treated as a possible concussion until proven otherwise.
Seek professional medical advice if in doubt.
Source : U.S. DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES CENTERS FOR DISEASE CONTROL AND PREVENTION CDC
