What is a concussion?

A concussion is a Brain Injury that:

• is serious
• may be caused by a bump or blow to the head
• can happen even if you haven’t been knocked unconscious
• can be serious even if you’ve just been “dinged”
• can change the way your brain normally works

When will symptoms appear?

• Signs and symptoms can appear immediately after the injury occurs or may not be noticeable until days or weeks after the injury

Signs of a concussion include

• headache or “pressure” in the head
• nausea
• balance problems or dizziness
• double or blurry vision
• bothered by light or noise
• feeling sluggish, hazy, foggy or groggy
• confusion, concentration or memory problems
• not “feeling right” or “feeling down”

When is it necessary to seek Immediate medical attention?

• symptoms worsen
• seizure
• neck/back pain
• vomiting
• weakness in arms or legs
• trouble staying awake
• pupils are unequal
• slurred speech

For more resources about concussions, visit http://ihsa.org/Resources/SportsMedicine/ConcussionManagement/ConcussionResources.aspx