Treatment of concussion

Explain what a concussion is and describe three common symptoms and two potential causes.

A concussion is a brain injury resulting from a disturbance of brain function affecting thr way a person thinks, feels and remembers things. Some common symptoms include a headache, dizziness or balance problems. It can either be caused by a direct blow to the head but can also occur when a blow to another part of the body results in the rapid movement of the head.

Why are children and adolescents more vulnerable to concussion, and what must be prioritised before they return to football?

Children and adolescents are more vulnerable to concussions they are still developing, neck muscles are weaker and hey take longer time to recover from injuries. Before returning to football it is critical prioritise a full return to education to ensure a period of rest both physically and cognitively as well as obtaining medical clearance.

List four visible clues and four symptoms that might indicate a player has suffered a concussion

• Visible clues:

  • Dazed, blank look

  • Lying motionless on the ground/slow to get up

  • Slow to respond to questions

  • Grabbing/clutching of head

   

  Visible symptoms:

  • Headache

  • Dizziness

  • Nausea

  • Disorientated

What should happen if a player displays any red flag symptoms after a head injury? Name three red flag symptoms

If any red flag symptoms are shown, the player should receive immediate medical attention at the nearest hospital/ Some of these red flag symptoms could be:

• Any loss of consciousness

• Amnesia

• Increasing confusion or irritability