Monday, December 8, 2014

How Moms can Spot a Sports Concussion

Excerpt from my book, Zero Offseason: Divorce, Youth Sports & Tips for the Insanely Busy Sports Mom.

Book available @ Amazon. http://www.amazon.com/Zero-Offseason-Divorce-Sports-Insanely-ebook/dp/B00PLY51RW/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1418047261&sr=8-1&keywords=zero+offseason

...though we can’t eliminate the initial concussion, we can take steps to prevent a second concussion during the critical healing period; that is the “return to play” focus for athletes, parents, coaches and healthcare providers.  

According to the CDC, parents, coaches and staff should look for the follow symptoms after a forceful blow to a student-athlete’s head or body that results in rapid movement of the head:

·        Athlete appears dazed or stunned

·        Confusion about assignments or position

·        Moves clumsily

·        Loss of consciousness (even briefly)

·        Behavioral changes

·        Slurred speech

·        Can’t recall events prior to or after the fall or hit.

And student-athletes might self-report the following symptoms:

·        Headache or “pressure” in the head

·        Nausea or vomiting

·        Balance or dizziness problems

·        Double or blurry vision

·        Sensitivity to light or sound

·        Feeling sluggish

·        Concentration or memory problems.