Do You Know the Signs of a Concussion?

There has been much media attention about concussions in the NFL.  The same is true in youth football programs.  Estimates are that 85% of concussions in youth programs go undiagnosed and untreated.  Much of the reason for the high statistic is due to the lack of funding for athletic trainers on the fields to identify the issue. 

So what is a concussion?  A concussion is any injury that forces the brain to shake violently against the inside of the skull causing injury.  The injury is dangerous and there is much research on the long term effects on chronic brain injury.  The bottom line with any head injury is that if a player is knocked unconscious the damage can be serious.  Even a minor hit may take a long time to recover. 

The signs of a concussion:  loss of consciousness or drowsiness, dizzy feeling, confusion, headache, ringing in ears, nausea or vomiting, blurred vision, slurred speech, and loss of memory of events regarding the injury.

*The player does not have to demonstrate all of these symptoms to have a concussion.

The signs and symptoms of a concussion can be subtle and may not be immediately apparent. Symptoms can last for days, weeks, or even longer.

Do you need further information on prevention of serious injury on the field?  Almega Sports has you covered and will continue with our blog series on football protection equipment.

Almega Sports takes player protection up a notch and provides everything you will need to get your football player ready for the season.  We are your local sporting goods store specializing in all the major brands such as Schutt, McDavid, Adams, Rawlings, All Star and more at prices that will keep you on the field.