Preventing Sports Concussions

"Remember, it's better to miss one game than an entire season. And better to miss the season than risk your life and future."

Signs and Symptoms of a TBI or Concussion

Some signs of a TBI may include:

• Headache or neck pain that won’t go away
• Blurred vision
• Lack of energy/tired
• Ringing in the ears
• Trouble sleeping or sleeping too much
• Loss of balance
• “Hurt” by loud noises or bright lights

Some changes in behavior from a TBI may include:

• Easily irritated; aggressive
• Mood changes: feeling sad, anxious
• Not interested in things that used to be enjoyed
• Confused, get lost easily
• Slow in thinking, speaking, or reading
• Hard time getting organized
• Hard time making decisions and solving problems
• Hard time paying attention
• Forgetting things that happened a few minutes or days ago

Prevention Tips

• Wear a helmet when:
  • Riding an OHV/ATV, bicycle, skateboard, or scooter;
  • Playing a contact sport, such as football, ice hockey, or boxing;
  • Using inline skates or riding a skateboard;
  • Batting and running bases in baseball or softball;
  • Riding a horse; or
  • Skiing or snowboarding.
• Ask your league, school, or district about concussion policies. Utah law requires youth sports organizations to have a concussion policy.
• Teach and practice safe playing techniques. Follow all rules pertaining to your sport.
• Teach athletes it’s not smart to play with a concussion. When an athlete has a concussion, the brain needs time to heal. Don’t let your athlete return to play until a health care professional, experienced in evaluating for concussion, says they are symptom-free and it’s OK to return to play.
• Replace damaged equipment promptly, especially helmets and other protective head gear. Some helmets require replacing after any impact, even if there are no visible signs of damage.

 

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