Easy Steps to Handle a Concussion After a Sports Injury: Doctors Approved

How to Handle a Concussion After a Sports Injury

Concussions are among the most frequent and possibly grave injuries in athletics.  From football field clashes to basketball tumbles and hockey collisions, athletes of all ages and levels are at risk for concussions.  Mishandling a concussion can result in long-term neurological damage or even life-threatening complications, despite the fact that it may often appear to be minor on the surface.  It is essential for athletes, coaches, parents, and medical professionals to understand how to identify, react to, and handle a concussion.

What Is a Concussion?

A concussion, classified as a traumatic brain injury (TBI), occurs due to a head impact or severe body jolt that causes the brain to move swiftly back and forth within the skull.  This abrupt motion can lead to chemical alterations and occasionally harm brain cells.

It is a misconception that a person must lose consciousness to sustain a concussion.  A lot of concussions are overlooked or not diagnosed since the symptoms can seem mild or come on later.

Common Causes of Sports-Related Concussions

While contact sports are the main arena for sports-related concussions, they can also happen in non-contact sports.  Some frequent reasons comprise:

• Football helmet-to-helmet collisions
• Includes gymnastics, basketball, or skating
• Unintentional elbow or head hits in basketball and soccer
• Quick, whip-like motions while playing sports

Signs and Symptoms of a Concussion

Signs of concussion can be subtle and may not appear right away.  Below are several important indicators and symptoms to monitor:

Physical Symptoms

• Headache or a feeling of “pressure” in the head
• Vomiting or feeling sick
• Dizziness or issues with balance
• Double vision or lack of clarity in sight
• Light or noise sensitivity
• Weariness or sleepiness

Cognitive Symptoms

• Confusion or feeling "foggy"
• Difficulty concentrating or remembering
• Slow response to questions
• Feeling dazed or stunned

Emotional Symptoms

• Irritability or mood swings
• Anxiety or nervousness
• Depression or sadness

Sleep-Related Symptoms

• Trouble falling asleep
• Sleeping more or less than usual

It’s vital to regard them as serious if any of these symptoms appear after a sports injury.

Immediate Steps After a Suspected Concussion

1. Take the Athlete Out of Play: The first and most crucial step is to take the athlete out of play without delay.  Maintaining involvement in physical activity can exacerbate the injury and elevate the risk of second impact syndrome, a rare but deadly condition that occurs when a second head injury happens before the first one has healed.

2. Pursue Medical Evaluation: The injured athlete should be evaluated by either an athletic trainer or the team physician.  If there are no options available, the individual should be brought to a healthcare facility for assessment.  To exclude severe injuries such as bleeding or swelling, a physician might conduct a neurological examination and, when necessary, recommend imaging procedures.

3. Keep a Close Eye on Symptoms: Symptoms can change during the first 24 to 48 hours.  Monitoring the athlete for any signs of deterioration, such as the following, is crucial:

• Repeated vomiting
• Slurred speech
• Increased confusion or agitation
• Seizures
• Weakness or numbness in limbs
• Loss of consciousness

These may indicate a more serious brain injury and require emergency care.

Recovery and Management

1. Recovery hinges on rest: Rest—physically and mentally—is the foundational element of recovering from a concussion.  Initially, athletes should steer clear of screen time, reading, loud music, and demanding cognitive tasks.  During the initial recovery phase, physical exertion should be kept to a minimum. This includes activities like walking long distances or climbing stairs.

2. Gradual Resumption of Activity: The return-to-play process should adhere to a staged protocol and be overseen by a healthcare professional.  The recommended protocol consists of:

• Step 1: Symptom-limited Activity Everyday tasks that do not trigger symptoms. Minor mental exertion such as brief chats or perusing several lines.
• Step 2: Gentle Aerobic Activity Either walking or using a stationary bike at a leisurely to moderate speed. No strength training.
• Step 3: Exercise Tailored to the Sport Hockey skating drills, soccer running drills. Avoid activities that impact the head.
• Step 4: Non-Contact Training Drills Training drills that are more advanced (e.g., passing drills in football or basketball). Can start with light resistance training.
• Step 5: Full Contact Practice After receiving medical clearance, engage in regular training.
• Step 6: Resume Game Play Should symptoms reoccur at any step, the athlete must cease activity and go back to the prior step after a 24-hour period without symptoms.

Importance of Medical Clearance

Do not resume play without medical clearance.  A healthcare professional will assess the athlete's recovery by examining symptom resolution, cognitive tests, and physical evaluations.  Disregarding this step may result in an extended recovery period or lasting harm.

Special Considerations for Young Athletes 

The recovery period from concussions is longer in children and teenagers compared to adults.  They might also find it challenging to convey their symptoms accurately.  It is crucial for parents, coaches, and school personnel to be particularly watchful and to make certain that young athletes do not come back to sports or schoolwork before the appropriate time.

During the recovery phase, it may be necessary to implement academic accommodations such as reduced homework, extended deadlines, or rest periods during school.

Long-Term Risks of Repeated Concussions

Concussions that are repeated, particularly when recovery time is insufficient, can result in serious repercussions, including:

• Chronic Traumatic Encephalopathy (CTE): A progressive brain disorder observed in athletes who have experienced repeated head injuries.
• Difficulties with memory and focus
• Alterations in personality
• Depression and anxiety disorders
• Elevated probability of developing neurological disorders in later life.

This is the reason why prevention and appropriate treatment are of such importance.

Preventing Sports-Related Concussions

Although concussions can’t always be prevented, there are various steps that can lower the risk:

• Correct Use of Equipment: It is essential that helmets and protective gear are in good condition and fit properly.
• Training in Technique: Coaches ought to stress safe playing methods (for instance, no head-first tackling).
• Rule Enforcement: Rigorously following the game rules can reduce high-risk plays.
• Strength Training: Muscles in the neck and shoulders that are strong may assist in better impact absorption.
• Education: It is important for athletes, coaches, and parents to be informed about how to identify signs of concussion and to comprehend the significance of recovery.

Importance of Coaches and Teammates 

The identification and treatment of concussions depend greatly on coaches and teammates.  It is essential to have a culture that prioritizes player safety above performance.  Promoting the habit of speaking up among athletes when they or their teammates sustain injuries can avert long-lasting harm.

When to Seek Emergency Assistance 

If a sports person shows any of the following signs, pursue emergency care without delay:

• Unconscious state, even if for a short time
• Vomiting repeatedly
• Convulsions or seizures
• One pupil is bigger than the other
• Intense headache that persists
• Difficulties with walking or speaking

These symptoms may suggest bleeding or swelling in the brain and necessitate urgent medical care.

Related: How to Prepare for a Marathon Without Injuring Yourself

Dealing with a concussion from a sports injury involves more than just resting; it requires taking responsibility.  Every step is crucial, from identifying early symptoms to guaranteeing total recuperation and avoiding future injuries.  No matter if you’re a player, coach, parent, or healthcare provider, knowing how to react to a concussion can be crucial.

It is crucial to receive professional care promptly if you or someone dear to you has endured a sports-related concussion in order to achieve complete recovery.  At L H Hiranandani Hospital, our skilled neurologists, sports medicine specialists, and rehabilitation professionals offer thorough assessments and tailored treatment plans to safeguard your health and promote your long-term well-being.