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 TO DO IF YOU OR SOMEONE YOU KNOW, THINKS THEY 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 checkup. 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.
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