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HEADS UP: CONCUSSION IN YOUTH SPORTS
A Fact Sheet for ATHLETES
WHAT IS A CONCUSSION?
A concussion is a brain injury that:
· Is caused by a bump or blow to the head
· Can change the way your brain normally works
· Can occur during practices or games in any sport
· Can happen even if you haven’t been knocked out
· Can be serious even if you’ve just been “dinged”
WHAT ARE THE SYMPTOMS OF A CONCUSSION?
· Headache or “pressure” in head
· Nausea or vomiting
· Balance problems or dizziness
· Double or blurry vision
· Bothered by light
· Bothered by noise
· Feeling sluggish, hazy, foggy, or groggy
· Difficulty paying attention
· Memory problems
· Confusion
· Does not “feel right”
WHAT SHOULD I DO IF I THINK I HAVE A CONCUSSION?
· Tell your coaches and your parents. Never ignore a bump or blow to the head even if you feel fine. Also, tell your coach if one of your teammates might have a concussion.
· Get a medical check up. A doctor or health care professional can tell you if you have a concussion and when you are OK to return to play.
· Give yourself time to get better. If you have had a concussion, your brain needs time to heal. While your brain is still healing, you are much more likely to have a second concussion. Second or later concussions can cause damage to your brain. It is important to rest until you get approval from a doctor or health care professional to return to play.
HOW CAN I PREVENT A CONCUSSION?
Every sport is different, but there are steps you can take to protect yourself.
· Follow your coach’s rules for safety and the rules of the sport.
· Practice good sportsmanship at all times.
· Use the proper sports equipment, including personal protective equipment (such as helmets, padding, shin guards, and eye and mouth guards). In order for equipment to protect you, it must be:
o The right equipment for the game, position, or activity
o Worn correctly and fit well
o Used every time you play
It’s better to miss one game than the whole season.
For more information and to order additional materials free-of-charge, visit:www.cdc.gov/ConcussionInYouthSports
For more detailed information on concussion and traumatic brain injury, visit: http://www.cdc.gov/injury
U.S DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES
CENTERS FOR DISEASE CONTROL AND PREVENTION
July 2007
Back to Heads Up: Concussion in Youth Sports
Content Source: National Center for Injury Prevention and Control, Division of Injury Response
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