Concussion - you just can't shake it off
Although the NFL always seems to be at the heart of the concussion controversy, there are other sports that also pose a concussion risk.
You might be surprised to learn that soccer is also a high risk sport for concussion. Among girls and women, soccer accounts for more concussions per participant than football
A concussion is caused by a bump, blow or jolt to the body, with a force transmitted to the head, causing an injury to the brain.
Because kids are not fully physically developed, having thinner skulls and weaker neck muscles, they are more susceptible to concussions.
You don't have to pass out to have a concussion - in fact, most people who get concussions don't pass out.
But if you do pass out after hitting your head, you need to get checked out.
There are risks to any activity, so we don't want to prevent you or your child from taking advantage of the great health and social benefits of team sports, but we do want you to play smart and protect your head.
Know the guidelines
Find out what your school or club is doing about minimizing concussion.
For example, Pop Warner Football disallowed certain head-on blocking and tackling drills, scaled back full-contact practice time and reduced concussions.
Some girls soccer teams prohibit "heading" the ball until athletes are at least 11 years old.
Ask about the team's sideline concussion assessment tool and under what circumstance they use it.
Check your head
Talk to kids about what the signs and symptoms of a concussion and how important it is to report these to adult:
• Dizziness
• Confusion
• Nausea or vomiting
• Fatigue or drowsiness
Baseline testing
Baseline testing offers a look at a child's cognitive level and is offered at the competitive high school level.
Baseline testing is recommended for kids 12-13 who play competitive or club sports. Baseline testing is now available for kids age 5 -11.
Equipment is key
Make sure head gear, football or bike helmets fit properly and are worn during play.
Helmets cannot prevent concussion, but worn properly they can help minimize the impact.
In recovery, take it slow
If a child sustains a concussion and is basically healthy, had no previous concussion and follows the recovery protocol, they can return to play in less than two weeks.
Here are some tips about recovery:
1. Rest, rest, rest! Maintain a regular sleep schedule, no late nights or sleep overs.
2. Take a break from tech - Avoid video games, excessive television watching and computer time
3. Avoid high-risk/high-speed activities such as riding a bicycle, playing sports, or climbing playground equipment, roller coasters or rides that could result in another bump, blow, or jolt to the head or body. Let your health care professional determine when it is safe to play.
4. Ease back into school and activity schedule as tolerated
5. Share health information, recovery steps and accommodations with your child's support group of teachers, coaches, parents, siblings and friends.
• Dr. Hossam AbdelSalam is a pediatric neurologist with Amita Health. Children's health is a continuing series. This week's article is courtesy of Amita Health, which is comprised of nine acute and specialty care hospitals, including Amita Health Alexian Brothers Women and Children's Hospital Hoffman Estates. For more information, visit www.amitahealth.org
Post concussion issues and accommodations
<span class="fact box text bold">Child tires easily:</span> Structure in frequent or extended breaks, shorter days
<span class="fact box text bold">Bothered by lights and sound: </span>Provide quiet room or seating up close to the teacher to reduce distraction
<span class="fact box text bold">Difficulty multi-tasking and remembering: </span>Provide class notes or written information. Allow student to tape record class lectures
<span class="fact box text bold">Difficulty staying organized:</span> Homework tracker, reduced assignments or extended timelines on assignments and test.
I<span class="fact box text bold">ncreased frustration, irritability and emotional: </span>Cool down time, quiet room, resting.