Facts About Concussion for Youth Sport and

Recreational Athletes

What is a concussion? How do concussions happen? What are the signs and symptoms of

concussion? What should you do if you think you have a

concussion? Can concussions be prevented? Where can you and your parents/custodians get

more information about concussion?

Overview of Information

A concussion is a serious brain injury A concussion happens when your brain

shakes violently inside of your skull and causes your brain to not work normally

What is a Concussion?

A concussion can happen when:• You hit your head against another

player’s head or body part (e.g., elbow or knee)

How Do Concussions Happen?

A concussion can happen when:• You hit your head against the

ground

How Do Concussions Happen?

A concussion can happen when:• You hit your head against the ball,

goalpost, or other types of equipment

How Do Concussions Happen?

A concussion can happen when:• Your head whips back and forth

very quickly when falling or getting hit on your body (e.g, whiplash)

How Do Concussions Happen?

If you get hit in the head or get whiplash during a game or practice and have one or more of the following:• A headache• Feel dizzy• Feel confused• Forget where you are or what is going on in the game

or practice• Lose consciousness• Feel sick to your stomach and maybe even vomit

What are the On-Field Warning Signs of Concussion?

You may have a concussion!Tell someone immediately!

Sometimes you don’t get symptoms of a concussion until a few days after your game or practice. Here

are some warning signs for concussion:

What are the DELAYED Signs and Symptoms of

Concussion?

• Trouble paying attention• Can’t remember things• Feeling more annoyed or

irritable• Getting mad easily• Feeling worried or nervous• Sad or wanting to cry

• Feeling really tired• Bad headache• Trouble sleeping or sleeping

more than usual• Blurry vision• Sensitive to loud noise or bright

lights• You feel dizzy or head feels like it

is spinning• Feeling foggy or zoned out

TELL SOMEONE!•Tell your coach, referee/official, and/or your parents•They will be able to get you help to make you feel better!

DON’T KEEP PLAYING IF YOU THINK YOU MAY HAVE A CONCUSSION!•Your brain is injured•Staying in the game or practice is very dangerous

What Should You Do If You Think You Have a Concussion?

If you think you have a concussion, you may need to see a doctor. Brain injuries are serious, so it is important to follow all instructions.

For a period of time you may not be able to play, but with the right steps, you may be able to recover from your injury and make a safe return to play

What Should You Do If You Think You Have a Concussion?

Concussions, like other injuries, are part of playing sports- They cannot totally be prevented!

There are a few ways you can lower your risk of getting a concussion:• Follow the rules of the game and keep play safe • Make sure that protective equipment is in good

condition, properly fits, and is worn correctly• Make sure you completely recover from a

concussion before you go back to practice and/or game

Can Concussions Be Prevented?

A CONCUSSION IS SERIOUS BRAIN INJURY!

A CONCUSSION HAPPENS WHEN YOUR BRAIN SHAKES INSIDE OF YOUR SKULL VERY QUICKLY AND

CAUSES SYMPTOMS

YOU SHOULD NOT KEEP PLAYING IF YOU HAVE A CONCUSSION OR THINK YOU MAY HAVE A

CONCUSSIONTHIS IS DANGEROUS!

IF YOU THINK YOU MAY HAVE A CONCUSSIONTELL SOMEONE RIGHT AWAY SO THEY CAN HELP

YOU!

Let’s Review!

Here is a link to more information on concussion

http://www.nfhslearn.com/electiveDetail.aspx?courseID=38000

Where Can I Find More Information?